Statement on court ruling that Meta Platforms Inc/Facebook is justifiable under Kenya law

06th February, 2023

Amnesty International Kenya Executive Director Irungu Houghton says, “Amnesty International Kenya welcomes the Kenya Employment and Labour Relations court ruling that the labour rights violations case filed by former Sama Source employee and petitioner Daniel Motaung and others against Meta Platforms Inc/Facebook is justiciable under Kenya law. The bid by Meta to be removed as a respondent in the case has failed.

This is a significant step that ensures the authority of Kenyan courts to protect and enforce fundamental human rights. If the attempt by Meta Platforms Inc to avoid Kenyan justice had succeeded, it would have undermined the fundamental tenets of access to justice and equality under the law in favour of foreign privilege.

The judgement is both historic and globally significant. This is the first time that Meta Platforms Inc will be significantly subjected to a court of law in the global south. Amnesty International Kenya is delighted by the ruling and its implications for other cases against Meta Platform Inc currently before Kenya’s courts. Social media platforms have serious impacts on people’s lives and societies. They must be more accountable.”

For more information and interviews, contact Mathias T. Kinyoda: Mobile +254723424803, Email: [email protected]