A blogger has been arrested for allegedly defaming a politician from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party.

The Bond-based blogger, Boniface Ohindo, popularly known as “Super B, is accused of defaming Francis Otiato, the Member of the County Assembly (MCA) for Yimbo East Ward in Bondo Constituency.

Super B was apprehended at his residence by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

His arrest came after Otiato filed a complaint accusing Super B of spreading misinformation and false claims about development projects in the area on his social media.

Bondo DCIO Reuben Onchoka confirmed the arrest, stating that Ohindo is expected to appear in court on Monday, November 10, to face charges related to cyber harassment and misuse of digital platforms.

MCA Requests to Super B

Otiato said he previously reached out to the blogger and asked him to stop posting defamatory content.

However, the MCA said Super B ignored his request, hence the decision to pursue legal action.Also Read: How DCI Plans to Track Down M-KOPA Fraudsters

Reconsidering the Case

Otiato stated that he could reconsider the case if Ohindo demonstrates remorse and issues a public apology.

Otherwise, he warned, the blogger would face both criminal charges and a civil lawsuit for damages.

Also Read: Shock as a Man Is Arrested for Kidnapping Head Teacher

Defamation Penalties

Defamation is a false statement of fact that is harmful to someone’s reputation and published “with fault,” meaning as a result of negligence or malice.

In Kenya, the penalties for criminal defamation under Section 194 of the Penal Code are as follows:

• Imprisonment: Up to two years.
• Fine: Up to Ksh50,000.
• Or both imprisonment and a fine.

Follow our WhatsApp Channel and WhatsApp Community for instant news updates

Yimbo East Ward Member of the County Assembly (MCA) Francis Otiato. PHOTO/Otiato Facebook.