An author accused of impersonating Charlene Ruto by publishing a book without her permission has asked a Nairobi court to order the release of his seized laptop.
Webster Ochora Elijah, who is facing charges of impersonation, told the court that detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) took the laptop from his office and have never given it back to him. He urged the court to intervene and direct its immediate return.
“My laptop is my tool of trade. It contains other projects belonging to my clients and my personal work,” he said, .
However, the prosecution told the court that the laptop was still undergoing forensic analysis.
Magistrate Robinson Ondieki acknowledged that professional tools are typically not withheld in civil cases and urged the investigating team to speed up the process.
An officer involved in the case assured the court that the forensic review would be completed within a week.
The magistrate directed that Webster Ochora Elijah’s laptop be returned immediately after the forensic review is complete.
A representative for Charlene Ruto confirmed in court that all witness statements had been filed.
The court set July 10, 2025, for the further mention of the case to confirm the return of the laptop. Hearing commences on July 22, 2025.
Ochora faces a single count of impersonation contrary to Section 382(1) of the Penal Code.
The charge sheet indicates that Ochora, between an unspecified date and May 22, 2025, impersonated Charlene Ruto and, in the name of Zawadi Publishers, wrote and published a book titled Beyond the Name: Charlene Ruto and the Youth Uprising.
Ochora’s lawyer told the court that his client had fully cooperated with investigators. He handed over a confidential manuscript, signed an inventory, and spent four days in police custody.
The defence urged the court to consider releasing him on a free bond, describing Ochora as a student and a creative professional.
The prosecution did not oppose the bond request and confirmed that all evidence would be shared with the defence team.
Principal Magistrate Geoffrey Onsarigo freed Ochora on a cash bail of Ksh50,000 with the condition that he provides two contact persons.
