Most of the key functions of the Telegram application have been restricted in Kenya.
The restriction had come ahead of the KCSE exams which started on Monday, November 4.
According to internet observatory Netlocks, Telegram was blocked across multiple internet providers in Kenya. Through error messages, including a “Connecting” error when trying to access it on desktops, users reported the malfunction.
A letter from the Communications Authority of Kenya temporarily confirmed the suspension. The letter went online and partly read that the restriction aimed at curbing criminal activities, especially cheating during the examination.
The letter was addressed to internet service providers, seeing the CAK request them to turn off Telegram’s operation. “Several government agencies reached out to request the suspension of Telegram due to its role in promoting cheating,” part of the letter read.
The suspension particularly targets the KCSE exam period. “Mobile network operators are hereby directed to suspend Telegram Inc. between 7:00 am and 10:00 am and from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm until November 22, 2024,” said CAK.
Telegram is the fifth most downloaded social media app in Kenya after WhatsApp, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.
Nevertheless, Telegram had its fair share of controversy. Recently, detention following interrogation in Paris over alleged offences relating to the application gave the co-founder and chief executive Pavel Durov a bad reputation.
Telegram has come under scrutiny from governments across the world that believe it spreads disinformation, enables extremism, and allows examination cheating in Kenya.
Several European countries have banned or put restrictions on Telegram, including Belarus, Russia, Ukraine, Germany, Norway, and Spain.
The restrictions seem to work because reports of cheating with mobile phones during exams have drastically fallen in 2024.
