Kenyan Jobseeker Detained for Alleged Fake News Targeting President Ruto
Nairobi, Kenya – A Kenyan jobseeker finds himself entangled in legal trouble after allegedly posting misleading information concerning President William Ruto on social media. Benson Malova Ashiko was apprehended in Bungoma on January 25, 2025, and is currently held at Muthaiga Police Station, facing potential charges related to publishing false information and cybercrime.
The case revolves around a social media post depicting a casket draped in the Kenyan flag with President Ruto’s portrait placed on top. The prosecution alleges that Ashiko shared this image on his X (formerly Twitter) account, garnering over 1.4 million views and 19,000 likes. Investigating officer Edwin Metto argued that such publications incite fear and panic among citizens, emphasizing the increasing prevalence of this type of online activity.
Chief Magistrate Susan Shitubi granted the police four days to investigate the matter, cautioning them against employing any form of torture during interrogation. Acknowledging Ashiko’s health condition, the magistrate directed that he be provided with necessary medical attention. The suspect is expected to be released on a bond of Sh50,000 or a cash bail of Sh5,000 after the investigation period. The case will be revisited on January 30, 2025, for further directions.
This incident follows a recent trend of legal action against individuals accused of disseminating false information online, particularly targeting high-profile figures like President Ruto. Last week, prison warder Jackson Kuria Kihara, also known as Cop Shakur, faced similar charges. These cases highlight the growing concerns surrounding the spread of misinformation on social media and the government’s efforts to curb its impact.
The potential charges against Ashiko carry significant penalties, including a fine of Sh5 million and/or a prison sentence of up to 10 years. The prosecution contends that the post was intended to tarnish the reputation of the president and his family, emphasizing the negative impact of such online activities. The police are investigating multiple social media accounts allegedly operated by Ashiko, using two registered mobile phones.
This case underscores the challenges faced by authorities in balancing freedom of expression with the need to combat the spread of misinformation, especially in the digital age. The magistrate’s warning against torture reflects the importance of upholding human rights even while pursuing justice. As the investigation progresses, it will be crucial to determine the veracity of the allegations and ensure a fair legal process for the accused. The outcome of this case will likely have implications for future instances of online misinformation and the legal frameworks used to address them.