A dramatic twist has unfolded in Nairobi’s fast-evolving world of politics and social media after the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) arrested a popular TikToker accused of spreading claims about an alleged plot to assassinate a well-known Nairobi Member of Parliament.
According to sources within the DCI, the suspect was apprehended following a series of viral videos in which he alleged that powerful political figures were planning to eliminate the MP due to “growing political influence and outspoken views.” The videos, which garnered thousands of views within hours, caused a stir online, igniting debates, fear, and speculation across political and digital spaces.
DCI officials stated that the suspect is being held for questioning under Kenya’s cybercrime and defamation laws. Investigators are reportedly analysing his digital footprint, including social media accounts, to determine the origin of the information and whether it was politically motivated or part of a coordinated misinformation campaign.
“We take all threats and incitement seriously, especially when they involve elected leaders or public safety. Freedom of expression does not include spreading falsehoods that can cause panic or violence,” a senior DCI officer told reporters on Friday.
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The MP at the centre of the storm, who has not been officially named for security reasons, has since broken silence, condemning the claims as “baseless, malicious, and dangerous.” In a statement, the lawmaker urged the youth to use social media responsibly and avoid being used as “tools of political manipulation.”
The arrest has sparked mixed reactions among Kenyans online. While some argue that the DCI’s move is justified to curb misinformation, others view it as an attack on free speech and digital activism. The case has reignited a broader debate about the thin line between online freedom and accountability in Kenya’s digital landscape, where politics and content creation often collide.
Legal analysts warn that such incidents highlight the urgent need for public education on digital ethics, media literacy, and the consequences of spreading unverified claims.
As investigations continue, the DCI has assured the public that all findings will be made public once due process is complete.
