Kenyan dancer and content creator Tileh Pacbro has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding MP Zaheer Jhanda’s proposal to regulate social media influencers, delivering a bold response that has sparked widespread conversation online.
In a pointed Instagram story, Tileh took aim at the Kisii Town Member of Parliament, suggesting that if the government wants to borrow from China’s influencer laws, it should also adopt the Asian country’s harsh penalties for corruption.
“As some Kenyan politicians pretend to want to copy China on their new law on influencers, someone remind Mr. Zaheer that China also has a law that punishes public funds embezzlement or high-profile corruption with death! We can’t wait for him to sponsor that bill too!” Pacbro wrote.
Tileh Pacbro’s Take: “Focus on Bigger Problems”
Known for his outspoken personality and strong views on governance, Tileh used his platform to highlight what he sees as misplaced political priorities.
He implied that instead of targeting digital creators, Kenyan leaders should address systemic corruption, public mismanagement, and the rising cost of living — issues that continue to affect millions of citizens.
His message resonated with thousands online, with many Kenyans echoing his sentiment that the country’s biggest challenges lie in leadership and accountability, not influencer marketing.
MP Zaheer Jhanda’s Controversial Proposal
The debate was sparked after MP Zaheer Jhanda announced his intention to table a bill seeking to regulate digital influencers, citing the need for accountability and professionalism within Kenya’s fast-growing content creation industry.
According to Jhanda, many influencers wield significant public influence but operate without guidelines or oversight a situation he says can lead to misinformation, exploitation, or defamation.
His remarks drew mixed reactions from Kenyans, with many viewing the move as an attempt to control online expression and silence critics of government officials.
ALSO READ: MP Zaheer Jhanda Seeks to Require Degrees for Social Media Influencers in Kenya
Pacbro’s response adds to the growing list of public figures — including influencers, comedians, and activists — who have rejected the proposal, arguing that such regulation would stifle creativity and free speech.
Online Reaction and Political Context
Some users pointed out that influencers have become easy targets because of their growing power to shape public opinion — often more effectively than traditional media.
Political analysts note that Jhanda’s proposal reflects a global trend where governments are attempting to regulate online speech amid growing concerns about misinformation and political criticism on social platforms.
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