Political activist and Civil educator Morara Kebaso Snr has been released after being charged with cyber harassment under Section 27 of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act No. 5 of 2018.
Kebaso, who was dramatically arrested on September 28, 2024, faces allegations about a social media post on his X account.
Morara is OUT#FreeMorara pic.twitter.com/Rrm89FAviR
— Shad: #DebtAudit (@Shad_khalif) October 1, 2024
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The post in question involved claims about billionaire businessman David Langat. It accused him of financially supporting President William Ruto’s campaign by taking large loans and using his properties as collateral.
William Ruto approached DL Langat and told him he desperately needs more money for campaign. DL Langat used his properties as security and took big loans to help his friend. Right now DL Langat is being auctioned by banks and the person who is buying the properties is William…
— Morara Kebaso Snr (@MoraraKebasoSnr) September 28, 2024
It further alleged that Langat was now facing property auctions by banks, with Ruto using his position to acquire Langat's assets at undervalued prices.
Kebaso and unnamed accomplices are accused of knowingly spreading false information to discredit and harm Langat's reputation.
NARC-Kenya leader Martha Karua leads Kebaso's legal team, consisting of over ten advocates. Karua’s team argues that the charges focus more on defamation and reputation damage than cyber harassment.
The defense has raised concerns over the charge sheet, especially questioning the complainant's identity and the validity of criminal charges in what appears to be a defamation case.
After his arraignment, Kebaso was released on Ksh. 500,000 cash bail, and the case will be mentioned on October 4, 2024. Before his arrest, Kebaso reported being followed by government agents, adding to his claims of being targeted for his outspoken criticism of President Ruto’s administration.
Kebaso has been vocal about government shortcomings, including stalled projects and alleged corruption. Despite receiving threats and being followed by vehicles with untraceable license plates, he remains committed to his activism.
"If I focus too much on the risks, I won’t be able to continue my work," he said, emphasizing that his mission is to hold the government accountable.
Kebaso has become a notable critic of the Ruto administration by addressing government accountability and corruption issues.
