The Milimani Chief Magistrates Court has ordered Kakamega-based blogger Simon Asiviela to issue a public apology to Lugari MP Nabii Daraja Nabwera over a series of social media posts that falsely linked the legislator to the death and disappearance of Munyuki High School Principal Simon Isiaho Shange.
The ruling, issued as an interim order pending a full hearing, came after the MP through his lawyer Danstan Omari moved to court seeking redress over what he described as malicious and politically motivated publications.
According to court filings, Asiviela had shared multiple posts on platforms including Kakamega Post, Malava Online, and Lugari Watchdog, alleging that the MP was involved in the principal’s disappearance.
The posts quickly spread online, prompting public outrage and even threats directed at Nabwera’s home in Lugari.
“The false claims put my family in danger and caused unnecessary panic in my community,” Nabwera stated in his affidavit. “These were deliberate lies meant to tarnish my name and reputation.”
The court found that the blogger’s posts were “malicious, false and unqualified,” and directed him to publicly retract the statements and apologize.
In addition to the apology, Nabwera is seeking Ksh20 million in damages for reputational harm, arguing that the viral allegations painted him as a suspect in a serious crime and eroded public trust.
The court also issued conservatory orders barring Asiviela from publishing further defamatory content against the MP until the matter is fully heard and determined.
The case underscores the growing concern over online misinformation and the legal consequences facing digital publishers who cross ethical and professional boundaries.
