A university student appeared at the Milimani Law Courts on Monday, accused of spreading false information through a misleading social media post.

The suspect, identified as David Oaga Mokaya, allegedly shared an image on November 13, 2024, via his X (formerly Twitter) account, "Landlord @bozgabi."

The post reportedly showed a funeral procession featuring a casket draped in the Kenyan flag, escorted by military officers in ceremonial attire. Mokaya is accused of falsely implying that the image depicted President William Ruto being transported.

PHOTO | COURTESY president Ruto

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According to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Mokaya altered the details of the image, including the date, to make the post appear authentic.

During his arraignment, Mokaya pleaded not guilty to publishing false information, a violation of laws designed to curb disinformation and protect public order. Senior Principal Magistrate Benmark Ekhumbi presided over the case.

The court granted Mokaya a bond of KSh 100,000 or an alternative cash bail of KSh 50,000. The hearing for the case is set for December 4, 2024.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts to tackle the spread of fake news and promote accountability in digital spaces.