DCI Summons Four Over Alleged Social Media Threats to Former Deputy President Gachagua
Security agencies in Embu County have summoned four local bloggers accused of issuing threats against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua ahead of his planned campaign visit to the region.
Embu County Commissioner Jack Obuo confirmed on Thursday, November 13, that the individuals were summoned following concerns raised by authorities over a series of social media posts perceived to be threatening the politician.
Obuo said that the security agencies, led by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), would question the suspects to establish the motive behind their statements and the exact context in which they were made.
“We cannot prosecute anyone before we understand the context in which they gave those statements, and today we have summoned those who gave the statements,” Obuo explained. “From there, the DCI and police will decide whether prosecuting the four will be appropriate or whether to proceed with further investigations.”
The bloggers are alleged to have targeted the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader after he announced plans to tour Embu County to campaign for Newton Kariuki, a candidate vying for the Mbeere North parliamentary seat in the upcoming by-election.
Sources within the county security team revealed that investigators are examining whether the online remarks contravened the newly amended Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, signed into law last month by President William Ruto.
New Law Under Scrutiny
The Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act 2024 introduces tougher penalties for online offenses, including threats, incitement, and dissemination of harmful digital content.
Under the law, any individual who communicates with another person in a manner “likely to cause violence, property damage, or personal harm” may face prosecution, with penalties including a fine of up to KSh20 million, imprisonment for up to 10 years, or both.
The amendment also grants the government expanded powers to block websites, remove content, or suspend online platforms deemed to be spreading harmful material — a provision that has stirred heated public debate.
Critics argue the new legislation risks being used as a political tool rather than a genuine effort to combat cybercrime. Civil society groups and digital rights advocates have warned that it could suppress free speech, investigative journalism, and legitimate online dissent.
“This law is less about protecting citizens from cyber threats and more about controlling political discourse online,” one digital rights activist told FlashNews, echoing concerns widely shared on social media.
President Ruto signed the contentious law on October 15, 2025, describing it as necessary to “restore sanity and responsibility in Kenya’s online space.” However, the move has faced mounting backlash from opposition leaders and human rights organisations, who accuse the government of using cyber legislation to monitor and intimidate critics.
Meanwhile, county officials say the Embu case will serve as an early test of how the amended law will be enforced, particularly in cases involving political figures and social media commentary.
“We are following the law as it stands,” Commissioner Obuo reiterated. “Our aim is to ensure peaceful political engagement and online responsibility in the run-up to the by-election.”
Investigations are ongoing, with the DCI expected to issue a statement once preliminary interrogations are completed.
Also Read: KNH Murder Suspect Kalombotole Declared Mentally Unfit to Stand Trial
DCI Summons Four Over Alleged Social Media Threats to Former Deputy President Gachagua