Governor Barasa takes legal action against Malala over a viral ritual video
Governor Barasa takes legal action against Malala over a viral ritual video
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has initiated legal action against Democracy for the Citizens Party Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala over a viral video alleging that the governor was involved in a ritual.
The video, which was circulated on social media, purportedly showed an unidentified man undressing during what was presented as a ritual involving an individual alleged to be a witch doctor.
However, the Kakamega County Government has dismissed the video as fabricated, saying it was digitally manipulated and generated using artificial intelligence to create a false impression of the governor.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, the county said it had initiated legal action against Malala and other individuals allegedly involved in publishing and disseminating the material.
“Legal action against Cleo Malalah and other persons involved in the publication and dissemination of the material was initiated today, September 29 2026, at Kakamega Central Police Station,” the statement said.
The county described the publication as malicious and defamatory, accusing those behind it of attempting to damage Barasa’s reputation by associating him with an entirely imaginary setting.
“Of particular concern is the deliberate attachment of an official photograph of the Governor to a manipulated and AI-generated video depicting him in an objectionable and fabricated circumstance with an individual alleged to be a witch doctor,” the county stated.
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According to the county government, the use of AI-generated content to create a false impression about a public officer amounts to more than ordinary political criticism and requires scrutiny by the relevant authorities.
“The use of digitally manipulated or AI-generated material to create a false impression about a public officer is not legitimate political discourse,” the statement read.
The county further cited Articles 33(3) and 28 of the Constitution, which require respect for the rights and reputation of others and protect the right to dignity.
Barasa’s administration also urged members of the public not to circulate the video, saying the governor was a devoted Christian and committed member of the Roman Catholic Church whose public service was anchored in faith and integrity.
The latest dispute adds to political tensions between Barasa and Malala, who have previously faced each other in Kakamega politics, including during the 2022 gubernatorial election in which Barasa defeated Malala.
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