Blogger Arrested Amidst Corruption Scandal in Kitui!
In a dramatic twist that has sent shockwaves through Kenya, Emmanuel Maleve, a prominent blogger from Kitui, has been apprehended and is now in custody at Muthaiga Police Station in Nairobi. His arrest stems from a provocative article he published, linking a local Member of Parliament to alleged corruption.
Activist Boniface Mwangi was the first to sound the alarm when Maleve mysteriously vanished, claiming police officers took him away in a Land Cruiser under questionable circumstances. Colleagues of the blogger believe his detention is a direct result of his explosive report, which labeled Kitui South MP Rachael Kaki as the “Queen of Corruption.”
While authorities at Kitui Central Police Station deny holding Maleve, lawyer Evans Ondieki shared that, despite efforts to secure his release, the blogger remains behind bars. “He was arrested for exposing corruption—funds meant for specific purposes have gone unaccounted for. This is why he is being silenced,” Ondieki revealed.
Following the publication, the MP wasted no time in launching a petition against Maleve, further escalating the tensions. Former Governor Charity Ngilu has vocally condemned the arrest, insisting that Maleve must be released immediately.
Ngilu emphasized the importance of freedom of expression, stating, “It’s disheartening to see politicians resort to intimidation to silence voices of dissent. We have fought too hard for our democratic rights to let fear take hold once more.”
This alarming incident echoes past tragedies; just a year ago, another blogger, Duke Nyabaro, was found dead after sharing a politically charged post, raising concerns about the safety of dissenting voices in the country.
As this story evolves, the implications for freedom of speech and the safety of journalists in Kenya become increasingly dire. We will continue to monitor this developing situation.
