Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has taken legal action against Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala over a viral video circulating on social media.
The video has been linked to claims that Barasa was involved in a ritual with an individual described as a witch doctor.
However, the Kakamega County Government has dismissed the video as fake, saying it was digitally manipulated and generated using artificial intelligence.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, September 29, the county government said it had reported the matter to Kakamega Central Police Station and that legal action had been initiated against Malala and other people it alleges were involved in publishing and sharing the material.
“Legal action against Cleo Malalah and other persons involved in the publication and dissemination of the material was initiated today, September 29 2026, at Kakamega Central Police Station,” the county said.
The county accused those behind the publication of attempting to damage the Governor’s reputation by linking him to what it described as a fabricated setting.
It said an official photograph of Barasa had been attached to the manipulated video to make it appear that he was part of the scene shown.
“Of particular concern is the deliberate attachment of an official photograph of the Governor to a manipulated and AI-generated video depicting him in an objectionable and fabricated circumstance with an individual alleged to be a witch doctor,” the county stated.
The county further said the use of digitally manipulated or AI-generated material to create a false impression about a public officer should be investigated by the relevant authorities.
It referred to Articles 33(3) and 28 of the Constitution, which provide for respect for the rights and reputation of others and protect the right to dignity.
The county government has also asked members of the public not to share the video.
Barasa’s administration described him as a committed member of the Roman Catholic Church and said his public service was guided by faith and integrity.
The latest dispute comes against the backdrop of political differences between Barasa and Malala, who have previously competed for political positions in Kakamega, including the 2022 gubernatorial election.
The matter has now been placed before the relevant authorities following the report made at Kakamega Central Police Station.
