Renowned Kenyan lawyer and activist Morara Kebaso is once again in the headlines, this time due to a legal case stemming from a recent social media post. Known for his bold stance against corruption and government inefficiencies, Kebaso now faces charges under Kenya’s Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act.

What Happened?

On September 28, 2024, Kebaso made a post on social media implicating prominent businessman David Langat and President William Ruto in a controversial financial relationship. In the post, Kebaso alleged that Langat had provided substantial financial support to President Ruto’s campaign. He further claimed that Langat’s properties were being auctioned due to financial difficulties, and that Ruto had used his power to buy these properties at a significantly undervalued rate.

These explosive claims led to Kebaso’s arraignment on cyber harassment charges under Section 27 of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act. The authorities accused him of spreading false information aimed at tarnishing Langat’s reputation.

The Legal Battle

After his arrest, Morara Kebaso was released on a cash bail of Sh50,000. His legal team, led by prominent lawyer Martha Karua, argued that the case should be treated as a civil defamation suit rather than a criminal matter. They contended that the charges amounted to an attempt to silence Kebaso’s right to free speech. The court has scheduled a hearing for October 4, 2024, to determine whether he will be required to plead to the charges.

Public Outcry and Reactions

Kebaso’s arrest has ignited a wave of public debate on the balance between freedom of expression and the protection of reputations in the digital age. Amnesty International condemned the arrest, calling it an abuse of the criminal justice system and a threat to free speech in Kenya. Public protests have also erupted, with supporters demanding his release and criticizing the government’s handling of the case.

What’s at Stake?

his case underscores the tension between activists, government officials, and the interpretation of cyber laws in Kenya. It raises important questions about the extent to which citizens can criticize public figures without facing legal consequences. With growing public interest and support for Kebaso, the outcome of this case could have significant implications for freedom of expression in Kenya, especially in the digital sphere.

Stay tuned as we follow this important case. #JusticeForMorara #FreeSpeech #KenyanPolitics #EndCorruption

Jeremiah Kioni, the Secretary-General of the Jubilee Party, recently launched an initiative called ‘Operation Rudi Nyumbani’ for Mt. Kenya residents who supported President William Ruto.
The initiative aims to accommodate those who defied former President Uhuru Kenyatta to support Ruto and are now regretting their choice. Kioni emphasized that the Jubilee Party is open to welcoming back its members who left and plans to start a recruitment drive in December.
Kioni’s initiative has been met with mixed reactions from political analysts and the public alike. While some have praised the move as a step towards unity and reconciliation within the Jubilee Party, others have criticized it as a desperate attempt to win back supporters ahead of the 2027 general elections. The initiative also raises questions about the party’s leadership and its ability to retain members in the face of political uncertainty and shifting alliances.

Deputy President Gachagua’s leadership within the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party seems to be under siege, as junior officials within his party openly contradict his statements. Recently, Kimani Gunjiri, the nominated land’s chief administration secretary, reminded Gachagua that President Ruto had earned the Mount Kenya votes himself.

The growing dissent within the UDA party indicates a significant challenge to Gachagua’s authority and raises questions about the unity within the party. Gunjiri’s comments highlight a division within the ranks, which could potentially have far-reaching consequences for the party’s future.

President Ruto, the leader of the UDA party, has been actively working to gain support from the Mount Kenya region, a crucial voting bloc in Kenyan politics. However, with Gunjiri’s statement, it appears that Gachagua’s ability to mobilize voters from this region might face challenges.

The contradictory statements from within the UDA party could suggest differing views and strategies within the party’s ranks. It could also indicate a lack of a unified message and internal coordination, which might hamper the party’s chances in upcoming elections.

As the Deputy President, Gachagua must address these internal divisions and work towards strengthening party unity. Without a coordinated and coherent message, the UDA party’s reputation and ability to attract voters may suffer.

In the coming weeks, it will be crucial for Gachagua and other party leaders to engage in open dialogue and seek common ground. The party’s success will heavily rely on their ability to resolve internal conflicts and present a united front to the public.

The ongoing turmoil within the UDA party also offers an opportunity for other political parties to capitalize on the situation. Opposition parties may see this division as an opening to challenge the UDA party’s dominance and gain support from disenchanted members.

In conclusion, Deputy President Gachagua finds himself facing growing dissent within his own UDA party. The contradictory statements from junior officials, such as Kimani Gunjiri, indicate a lack of unity and potentially significant challenges for the party’s future. Gachagua and other party leaders will need to address these internal divisions and work towards presenting a united front if the UDA party wants to maintain its support and prospects for success in upcoming elections.