‘Wash Wash MP’ Zaheer Jhanda Pushes Bill to Require Social Media Influencers to Hold Degrees
Nyaribari Chache Member of Parliament Zaheer Jhanda has announced plans to introduce a bill that could revolutionize Kenya’s digital content industry, proposing that social media influencers must hold university degrees before discussing professional subjects such as law, finance, health, or education.
Speaking on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, Jhanda said the proposed legislation seeks to curb misinformation and promote professionalism among online content creators on platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter).
“We cannot have a country where everyone is an expert,” Jhanda stated. “Influencers must be recognized by professional bodies such as the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), ICPAK, and the Media Council of Kenya before giving expert advice online.”
Bill to Regulate Professional Online Content
According to Jhanda, the upcoming bill will make it mandatory for influencers who speak on professional topics to possess relevant academic qualifications and registration with professional bodies.
For example:
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Legal commentators would need a law degree and recognition by the LSK.
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Financial advisors would require certification from ICPAK.
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Health content creators would need credentials from medical or public health bodies.
The MP added that influencers will also be required to disclose their qualifications in their social media bios when discussing professional issues.
“Social media is powerful, but when unqualified people give legal or medical advice, it puts millions at risk,” Jhanda warned.
Inspired by China’s Digital Regulations
Jhanda cited China’s Cyberspace Administration (CAC) as the inspiration behind his proposal. China’s new rules, effective October 25, 2025, require influencers to prove their expertise through degrees or licenses before discussing law, medicine, or finance online.
“I am borrowing a leaf from one of the most advanced nations,” Jhanda said. “If China can regulate misleading content for over a billion people, Kenya can do the same for its 50 million citizens.”
He emphasized that Kenya must act swiftly to combat the rise of online misinformation, which he said has led to financial losses and dangerous health decisions.
Mixed Reactions from Kenyans
Jhanda’s proposal has ignited a heated national debate.
Supporters say it will professionalize the influencer industry and protect the public from misinformation, while critics view it as a threat to freedom of expression and creativity.
Some influencers argue the bill could disadvantage smaller creators without access to formal education, while others acknowledge that regulation is overdue given the influence of online personalities.
“Unchecked misinformation has caused real harm, especially in sectors like health and finance,” one supporter commented online.
A Landmark Shift in Kenya’s Digital Regulation
If passed, Jhanda’s proposal could make Kenya the first African country to introduce academic and professional standards for social media influencers.
The move underscores a growing effort by policymakers to balance free speech with accountability in Kenya’s fast-evolving digital landscape.
As Parliament prepares to debate the bill, one thing is clear — Zaheer Jhanda’s degree requirement proposal has already sparked a national conversation on the future of online credibility and regulation.