Benson Malova Ashiko, social media influencer popularly known by his online alias “Ash Papi,” was earlier today arraigned at Milimani Law Courts for allegedly publishing false information on his X account.
Ashiko is alleged to have made the offense on January 18, 2025 ,an action that contravenes the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act No. 5 of 2018, which criminalizes the dissemination of false information intended to mislead or cause harm.
Appearing before Milimani Court No. 5 today , January 31,2025 , the accused pleaded not guilty to the charges in which the Senior Magistrate Jane Kamau granted him cash bail of Sh20,000 pending further court hearing.
According to Director of Criminal Investigation Ashiko is accused of knowingly and unlawfully publishing information on his X account against President William Ruto on January 18,2025.
Prosecution had earlier on claimed Ashiko posted a full casket wrapped in the Kenyan flag and a portrait of the president on it, that was false and detrimental to public interest.
The case has been scheduled for mention on February 19, 2025.
If convicted, Ashiko could face penalties outlined under the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act, including hefty fines or imprisonment.
This case highlights the growing scrutiny of social media platforms and the accountability of users in Kenya as authorities have resorted to cracking down on the spread of misinformation, with a larger number of social media influencers especially those on x facing numerous abductions while others reported missing.
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