Embakasi East MP Babu Owino appeared at the Milimani Law Courts on Thursday to represent activist and political commentator Nuru Maloba Okanga in a case where President William Ruto is listed as the complainant.
Okanga has been charged with publishing defamatory material contrary to Section 194 as read with Section 36 of the Penal Code.
The prosecution alleges that on June 10, 2024, using the TikTok account Riba News and the YouTube channel Riba News (@ribanews), Okanga unlawfully published content deemed to defame state leadership, including using threatening and abusive language directed at the Head of State.
‘Today, I was Representing my Client and my constituent Nuru Okanga at Millimani Courts during the Hearing of his case where President RUTO is the COMPLAINANT. He was charged with PUBLISHING OF DEFAMATORY MATTER CONTRARY TO SECTION 194 AS READ WITH SECTION 36 OF THE PENAL CODE,’Bbau Posted.
Babu Owino, who has openly defended his constituent, said he was committed to ensuring Okanga’s right to legal representation and freedom of expression was upheld.
The case, which has attracted public and political interest, is part of a growing trend where digital platforms have become battlegrounds for political commentary and criticism of state leadership.
The hearing continues at the Milimani Law Courts.
