Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has initiated legal action against Cleophas Malala, deputy party leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party, over a viral video that allegedly shows the governor participating in a ritual. The video, which has been circulating on social media, appears to depict an unidentified man undressing during a ritual involving a person claimed to be a witch doctor.
The Kakamega County Government has dismissed the footage as fabricated, stating that it was digitally manipulated using artificial intelligence to create a false impression of the governor. In a statement released on September 29, 2026, the county announced that it had taken legal action against Malala and other individuals involved in publishing and distributing the material at the Kakamega Central Police Station.
The county government described the publication as malicious and defamatory, aimed at harming Barasa's reputation by falsely linking him to a made-up setting. The statement expressed concern over the deliberate attachment of the governor's official photograph to a manipulated and AI-generated video depicting him in an objectionable and fabricated circumstance with an individual alleged to be a witch doctor.
According to the county government, using AI-generated material to create a misleading impression about a public officer goes beyond ordinary political criticism and warrants review by the relevant authorities. The county cited Articles 33(3) and 28 of the Constitution, which require individuals to respect the rights and reputation of others and uphold the right to dignity.
Barasa's administration urged members of the public not to share the video, emphasizing that the governor is a devoted Christian and a committed Roman Catholic, and that his public service is grounded in faith and integrity. The county government emphasized that the video is not legitimate political discourse.
The viral video has sparked widespread attention, with many condemning the use of AI-generated content to tarnish the reputation of public officials. The incident highlights the challenges of regulating social media content and the need for authorities to address the issue of manipulated videos.
Governor Barasa's decision to take legal action against Malala and others involved in publishing the video demonstrates his commitment to protecting his reputation and upholding the law. The case is expected to draw attention to the implications of AI-generated content on public discourse and the need for accountability in the use of such technology.
Key points
- Governor Fernandes Barasa files lawsuit against Cleophas Malala over AI-generated video
- Kakamega County Government dismisses viral video as fabricated and defamatory
- County cites Constitutional articles on respect for rights and reputation
