Youthful Benson Malova Ashiko, better known as Ash Papi, a social media influencer and online personality, was on Friday 31st arraigned in court on charges of publishing false information on his X handle.
Ash Papi, whose official X account (@Mr_Papi5) boasts a significant following, is accused of knowingly and unlawfully disseminating misleading information on January 18, 2025. The posts in question were allegedly misleading and, according to authorities, violated provisions in the 2018 Cybercrime Act designed to regulate the spread of falsehoods and misinformation on digital platforms according to a brief report released by the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI).
The accused appeared before Milimani Court No. 5, where he pleaded not guilty to the charges. He was granted a cash bail of KSh 20,000, pending further legal proceedings. The case is set to return to court for mention on February 19, 2025.
Under the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act, individuals found guilty of publishing false information online can face severe penalties, including hefty fines or imprisonment. The Act is part of the government’s broader efforts to combat the spread of fake news, disinformation, and harmful content across digital platforms.
Ash Papi, who is known for his bold social media presence, has previously been involved in several viral online discussions, but this marks the first legal challenge to his digital conduct. His followers and social media users have reacted with mixed opinions, with some defending his right to free expression, while others back the government’s stance on curbing harmful misinformation.
Ash Papi’s prosecution comes at the time that the DCI is tightening its belt in the fight against the misuse of various social media platforms to break the law and spread hatred among Kenyans. Further investigations have also proved that the youthful generation now known as the Gen Z is the leading perpetrators of such harmful activities.
