Blogger Francis Gaitho To Present Himself At DCI Headquarters
Blogger Francis Gaitho announced his intention to appear at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) headquarters on Kiambu Road following a statement from the National Police Service (NPS) indicating their search for him.
The police mistakenly apprehended veteran journalist Macharia Gaitho soon after he departed from his residence on Wednesday morning. After several hours, the journalist was released, with authorities acknowledging the case of mistaken identity.
“The National Police Service would like to clarify to the public that this morning, we arrested journalist Macharia Gaitho in a case of mistaken identity, meant for the arrest of Francis Gaitho who is our subject of investigation. We reiterate that as a Service, we do not target journalists in any way, and today’s incident is highly regrettable,” NPS said.
Gaitho, the blogger, confirmed post-event that he was consulting with his legal counsel to strategize the next steps.
Subsequently, he declared his intention to voluntarily appear before the DCI.
“I will be presenting myself at DCI Headquarters, Mazingira House Kiambu Road at 2 pm today. Thank you all for your concern,” he said.
Gaitho has actively used his social media platforms to voice support for ongoing demonstrations demanding President William Ruto’s resignation.
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Transitioning from aspiring Thika Town MP to digital activism, Gaitho critiques the government’s accountability. His posts, though divisive, garner both praise and criticism.
He has engaged in prominent forums like the X Space hosted by Kimuzi, attracting 137,000 listeners, including digital strategist Dennis Itumbi and former CS Kipchumba Murkomen.
After his announcement, online Kenyans suggested he bring a team of lawyers to headquarters to ensure his freedom.
“Armed with lawyers or else.”
“Fearless indeed we love this they should avoid abducting us and tell us to present ourselves and we will go.”
“Share photos and everything to Sir,” read some of the comments online.
According to the human rights group Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), over 59 people have been abducted during the recent wave of protests while 413 are nursing injuries. Further, the number of fatalities stand at 50 since June 18, 2024.
Blogger Francis Gaitho To Present Himself At DCI Headquarters