Monrovia — Grand Kru County Senator Albert Chie has raised considerations over particular provisions throughout the proposed Cyber Crime Act of 2021 at the moment being debated within the Liberian Senate.
By Obediah Johnson
He described components of the invoice as “worrisome,” significantly concerning legislation enforcement powers and funding preparations, citing potential threats to civil liberties and authorities accountability.
The Cyber Crime Act, which has already handed the Home of Representatives, is designed to create a unified regulatory framework to fight cybercrime and defend vital info infrastructure.
The laws goals to safeguard digital banking programs and improve cybersecurity by defending computerized and digital information programs from legal assaults.
Throughout Senate debate on Thursday, June 19, Senator Chie targeted his remarks on a number of sections of the invoice that, in his view, require revision earlier than ultimate approval. He highlighted considerations concerning the expanded powers given to legislation enforcement businesses, in addition to the mechanisms for funding cybercrime enforcement efforts.
One of many details of rivalry is Part 28, which authorizes cops or investigators to hold out searches and investigations associated to cybercrime with out first acquiring a courtroom warrant. Senator Chie warned this might undermine constitutional protections and open the door to potential abuses.
“This part grants legislation enforcement the authority to grab property and conduct investigations with out judicial oversight, which may be very troubling,” Senator Chie stated. “We should fastidiously consider the implications of permitting such actions with out courtroom approval.”
He additionally pointed to Part 18, which criminalizes the distribution of sure information messages. In keeping with Senator Chie, the language of this provision is simply too imprecise and dangers infringing on freedom of expression by doubtlessly focusing on legit communication.
The Senator emphasised the necessity for specialised coaching in cyber investigations earlier than the legislation is enacted. He referred to as for presidency efforts not solely to punish cybercriminals but additionally to construct capability for prevention.
“We should guarantee this laws is powerful as a result of cybercrime transcends nationwide borders,” he stated. “Elevating public consciousness and equipping investigators with correct abilities are vital earlier than passing this legislation.”
Senator Chie additionally criticized Part 36, which outlines the funding sources to help cybercrime enforcement. The invoice proposes allocating about 70 % of the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications’ price range to cybercrime initiatives, with extra funding from donor companions and telecommunications establishments such because the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) and Liberia Telecommunications Company (Libtelco).
He referred to as this association unrealistic and doubtlessly burdensome for these establishments.“I like to recommend we keep away from imposing particular budgetary percentages on these businesses,” Senator Chie stated. “Funding ought to come from the nationwide price range general to forestall inserting undue strain on these organizations.”
Supporting the invoice, Senator Francis Dopoh, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Posts and Telecommunications, burdened the urgency of passing complete cybercrime laws given Liberia’s growing digitization.
“Liberia is advancing quickly with e-procurement, commerce, finance, and social media, which exposes us to cyber threats,” Senator Dopoh stated. “With out this legislation, many cybercriminals will proceed to function with impunity.”
Senator Dopoh defended the warrantless search provision as a obligatory measure to handle the challenges of investigating cybercrimes.
“Not like conventional crimes, cybercrime proof will be shortly erased or moved to the cloud if authorities await a warrant,” he defined. “If police have purpose to imagine a suspect’s pc accommodates proof, delays may lead to shedding vital information.”
He famous that momentary seizure and searches with out warrants are important to protect proof in a well timed method.
Relating to funding, Senator Dopoh clarified that directing contributions from telecommunications establishments goals to keep away from bureaucratic delays in disbursing assets.
“These organizations are instantly concerned in telecommunications, so their contributions will facilitate well timed and efficient responses to cybercrime,” he stated.
The Senate is at the moment reviewing a joint committee report from the Committees on Posts and Telecommunications and Judiciary. A ultimate determination on the Cyber Crime Act of 2021 is anticipated throughout the subsequent month.
