A third-year law student from the University of Nairobi has landed in legal trouble after an Eldoret court ordered him to pay Ksh7.5 million in damages for cyberbullying and defamation.
Kevin Ndung’u Kiriga, who was found guilty of defaming Benard Kagia, a driver attached to Prophet David Owuor of the Repentance and Holiness Church, is expected to compensate Kagia following a ruling delivered by Eldoret Chief Magistrate Dennis Mikoyan.
Guilty of Cyber Harassment and Character Assassination
The court ruled that Kiriga had engaged in online harassment and malicious defamation, violating Act No. 5 of 2018 under the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act. The lawsuit arose from a series of posts Kiriga published on Facebook three years ago, in which he referred to Kagia as a “prostitute” and accused him of infidelity and family neglect.
The defamatory posts, the court heard, sparked significant personal consequences for Kagia, including the breakdown of his marriage.
Magistrate Mikoyan emphasized the seriousness of the offense and noted the increasing number of cyber defamation cases in the country.
“Defamation statements made through online platforms are bound to have serious legal implications, and all users of digital space must be informed of the consequences,” he warned.
Court Awards Ksh7.5 Million in Damages
While issuing the ruling, Chief Magistrate Mikoyan affirmed that the defamatory nature of the posts warranted heavy compensation. “I accordingly find that the plaintiff is entitled to damages for defamation, including the cost of the suit amounting to Ksh7,512,700,” he stated.
He urged social media users to exercise restraint and courtesy, especially when publishing content that could damage someone’s character and reputation.
Student Begs for Time to Raise Millions
After the ruling, Kevin Ndung’u protested the magnitude of the financial penalty. Speaking emotionally before the court, the young law student revealed he had no assets or income to settle the amount.
“I have no assets of my own because everything at home belongs to my parents,” he said.
Kiriga begged the court to give him a 30-day extension so he could seek help from his family. “I beg this court to grant me 30 days during which I can go home and talk to my parents and other relatives about how to pay the fine and settle the plaintiff as per the court order.”
