JSS Teacher Charged with Impersonating President Ruto’s Daughter on Social Media
A Junior Secondary School (JSS) teacher was arraigned in court Thursday afternoon over accusations of impersonating President William Ruto’s daughter, June Ruto, on social media platforms.
Samwel Mogwasi Mainga, who was arrested in Mombasa County on April 9, 2025, is facing charges under the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act. His arrest came during a school sports event, where he was reportedly present while leaving his students unattended, a detail highlighted by his defense counsel.
Appearing before the Chief Magistrate’s Court at Milimani, lead investigator P.C. Peter Mwangi said the matter is still under investigation. He told the court that detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) require more time to collect crucial evidence, including access to the accused’s social media profiles and statements from additional witnesses.
Mwangi also expressed fears that Mainga might abscond, claiming the suspect’s current residence remains unclear. The prosecution has, therefore, requested the court to grant them an additional seven days to finalize the investigation.
Mainga’s defense lawyer, Danstan Omari, strongly opposed the application for prolonged detention. He insisted that his client is a certified teacher employed by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and has a permanent place of residence, rendering flight risk allegations baseless.
Omari further contended that forensic analysis of social media and the collection of witness accounts could proceed without continued detention, emphasizing that further incarceration would infringe upon Mainga’s constitutional rights.
The court is expected to deliver its ruling on the application for extended detention on Friday.
The case has ignited public debate on the limits of online conduct, the rights of suspects, and the implications of impersonation in the digital age, especially involving figures close to the presidency.
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JSS Teacher Charged with Impersonating President Ruto’s Daughter on Social Media