Kenyan Member of Parliament Didmus Barasa has filed a KSh 100 million defamation suit against Consumer Federation of Kenya (COFEK) Secretary General Mutoro. The case stems from allegations that Barasa's academic qualifications are not genuine. Barasa, who represents Kimilili constituency, recently submitted a complaint to the court. Mutoro had questioned Barasa's academic credentials, prompting the MP to seek compensation for what he claims is damage to his reputation.
The controversy surrounding Barasa's academic qualifications began when Jomo Kenyatta University of Science and Technology (JKUAT) confirmed that Barasa did not graduate from the institution with an Electrical Engineering degree. Mutoro had sought clarification from JKUAT regarding Barasa's academic background. The verification process revealed that Barasa's degree was not issued by JKUAT. This development sparked further scrutiny of Barasa's academic record.
Mutoro also questioned the legitimacy of a PhD that Barasa obtained from Murang'a University. Mutoro argued that it was unlikely for Barasa to have earned a doctoral degree when his undergraduate credentials were under scrutiny. Barasa responded by stating that he used a valid undergraduate degree and a Master's degree from Mt Kenya University (MKU) to apply for his PhD.
Barasa's lawyer, Danstan Omari, has defended his client's academic qualifications. Omari drew a distinction between formal academic qualifications and what he described as Barasa's innate political skill. Omari characterized Barasa's track record at the ballot box as evidence of his political engineering. Barasa has maintained that his qualifications are in order.
Omari emphasized that Barasa's ability to win elections and his ambitions for the Bungoma governorship demonstrate his political engineering skills. Omari valued the reputational damage his client had suffered at over 70 million shillings. He issued a two-hour ultimatum to Mutoro to respond to the defamation claim.
The case has sparked a heated debate about the legitimacy of Barasa's academic qualifications. Barasa is eyeing the Bungoma gubernatorial seat in 2027. His opponents have seized on the controversy to question his suitability for the position. The court is expected to hear the defamation case in the coming weeks.
The controversy has raised concerns about the vetting process for Kenyan politicians. The case highlights the need for thorough verification of academic credentials for public officials. Key points:
Key points
- Didmus Barasa filed a KSh 100 million defamation suit against COFEK Secretary General Mutoro.
- Barasa's academic qualifications were questioned after JKUAT confirmed he did not graduate with an Electrical Engineering degree.
- Barasa's lawyer, Danstan Omari, defended his client's 'political engineering' skills.
