A man has been charged at the Kibera Law Courts with cyber harassment after allegedly sending a threatening message to a magistrate over the handling of a court case. Francis Kamau Karanja is accused of sending the message to Magistrate Margaret Murage on September 28, 2026. According to the charge sheet, the message was sent to Murage's mobile phone at about 7pm while Karanja was at an unknown location within Kenya.
Karanja faces a charge of cyber harassment contrary to Section 27(1)(a), as read with Section 27(2), of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act. The alleged message accused the magistrate of bias in a case involving Gabriel Saka and warned her that the sender would pursue what he termed justice. The message also contained phrases that prosecutors contend were likely to cause apprehension or fear of violence.
The message cited in the charge sheet reads, “I have noted the great bias in the case of Gabriel Saka. It seems you have taken sides and we will not allow it.” The message further warned the magistrate to “Chunga kazi yako” and “Tunajua kwako.” Karanja was arrested on October 5 without a warrant and taken to court on October 6.
According to the charge sheet, Karanja was listed as being in custody at the time the charge sheet was prepared. The prosecution listed Murage and a police officer identified as CPL Clement Muthoka among the witnesses in the case. The case is set to proceed, with the prosecution presenting evidence against Karanja.
Cyber harassment is a serious offense in Kenya, with the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act providing for stiff penalties for those found guilty. If convicted, Karanja could face imprisonment or a fine. The case has raised concerns about the safety of magistrates and judges in Kenya, who often handle sensitive and high-profile cases.
The incident highlights the need for increased security measures to protect judicial officers from threats and harassment. The judiciary has a critical role in upholding the rule of law, and it is essential that its officers are able to perform their duties without fear of intimidation. The case will be closely watched, as it sets a precedent for similar cases in the future.
Karanja's case is one of several recent incidents involving cyber harassment in Kenya. The country has seen a rise in cases of online harassment and threats, with many Kenyans using social media platforms to express their views and opinions. The government has been urged to take action to address the issue and ensure that those who commit cyber harassment are brought to justice.
Key points
- Francis Kamau Karanja faces cyber harassment charges for allegedly sending a threatening message to Magistrate Margaret Murage.
- The alleged message accused the magistrate of bias in a case involving Gabriel Saka and warned her that the sender would pursue what he termed justice.
- If convicted, Karanja could face imprisonment or a fine under the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act.
