Francis Gaitho charged with publication of false information

Francis Gaitho before Milimani Senior Principal Magistrate Robinson Ondieki. [File, Standard]

Social media influencer and politician Francis Ng'ang'a Gaitho was Thursday charged with publishing false information claiming that the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) arrested the wrong person as the prime suspect in connection with the Kware killings.

Appearing before Milimani Senior Principal Magistrate Robinson Ondieki, Gaitho denied two charges of publishing false information on X and cyber harassment on alleged Githurai and Rongai killings and missing persons.

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) informed the Court that Gaitho on July 15, 2024, at around 2 pm while at an unknown place using his X handle @FGaitho237, intentionally published false information with the intent that the post would be perceived as authentic.

He was accused of publishing false information about an innocent Kenyan over the Kware killings, causing him apprehension or fear of violence, as well as potential damage or loss to his property.

Gaitho faced a second count that on the same dates and place while using his X handle, published false information on Githurai and Rongai killings and missing persons, posts detectives claim triggered more protests.

Through lawyers John Khaminwa and Duddley Ochiel, Gaitho sought to be released on lenient bail terms saying he is a well-known politician based in Thika.

Khaminwa said his client is not a flight risk and is willing to abide by all conditions set by the court.

The magistrate released Gaitho on a cash bail of Sh30,000 and ordered him to deposit his passport in court.

Ondieki directed the matter be mentioned on August 1, 2024, for a pre-trial conference.

In the same court, Alinur Muhammed Bulle was charged with publishing false information implicating State House spokesperson Hussein Muhammed.

Bulle was accused that on July 15, 2024, at around 1408 hours using his X handle, published false information claiming Hussein said that his ethics can not sustain the propaganda by the government and he would better resign than compromise his principles.

He was granted a cash bail of Sh30,000 pending trial on  August 14, 2024.