- Detectives from the Department of Investigation (DCI) have arrested TikTok influencer Peter Maingi Kimani, popularly known as Menelik Kimani, in Gatundu South after his video went viral
- Kimani allegedly claims royal and biblical lineage, while challenging the legitimacy of President William Ruto’s government
- The DCI warned that although freedom of expression is constitutionally protected, it should not be used to endanger public peace
DCI officers arrested Kimani following the video TikTok which spread rapidly where he directly criticized President Ruto and issued what the authorities described as a threat.
Source: UGC
This happened after a TikTok video went viral where he directly criticized the President William Ruto and issued what authorities described as a threatening ultimatum.
How did the DCI track and arrest Kimani?
According to information released on Thursday, February 26, the police tracked Kimani to a hideout in the Gachage area of Kiganjo, Gatundu South Sub-County.
The teenager, who is a frequent user of the social media platform, is said to have gone into hiding after posting the video earlier this week.
“The suspect was brought out of hiding in the Gachage area of Kiganjo, Gatundu South, where he had been hiding after committing the crime. He is currently going through legal procedures while waiting to be brought to court,” DCI it said.
The detectives noted that the young man had gone through the usual procedures after being arrested, waiting to be brought to court.
The DCI also said that the remarks were a threatening message and warned against misuse of social media platforms to incite violence or disturb public peace.
The organization noted that although freedom of expression is protected under the Constitution, it must be exercised responsibly and in accordance with the law.
“DCI reminds citizens that although freedom of expression is guaranteed in the Constitution, its use should not be a tool to promote or justify the violation of the rights of others. The department also emphasizes that it will not hesitate to take action against any irresponsible use of social networks, especially when there is a threat to peace and security,” The DCI said in a statement on Thursday, February.
Why was Kimani arrested?
A quick scan of Kimani’s TikTok page showed a series of videos criticizing the administration Kenya First of Ruto.
From videos promoting a military coup to claims to have undergone military training since 2023, the TikTok user’s account is a treasure trove for the DCI.
In a video that put him on the DCI’s radar after it was widely circulated on social media platforms, Kimani speaks directly to Ruto.
In the piece, he warned the head of state against ignoring him following the challenge he gave to the Kenya First administration.
“President, William Ruto, ignore me at your own peril, ignore me at your own peril. I am asking for a challenge between me and your government, and a crying child give me a razor,” Kimani said.
The remarks immediately drew attention online, with users sharing and discussing them expressing concern about its direction and content.
Kimani also rejected democratic leadership on the record, making remarks that appeared to question the legitimacy of the Ruto government.
Source: Twitter
“A true king does not come through the ballot box, a true king comes from the battlefield. Democracy has produced weak kings who come to power through lies and deceiving the poor,” he said.
In another part of the video, Kimani introduced himself in surprising terms, claiming a royal and biblical lineage.
“Allow me to introduce myself. I am Menelik, the son of King Solomon, the son of King David. We are the royal blood chosen and anointed by the Creator of heaven and earth. We do not ask for power, we take it by force. Mr. President, a true king does not come through the ballot box. A true king comes from the battlefield,” he demanded.
Kimani also gave what he called a seven-day ultimatum to the president, adding that if he did not get answers, he would go to the White House and decide Ruto’s fate.
“For seven days from today, prepare your army for war. I have given you seven days to make your decision wisely because it will be a matter of life and death, only the strong will survive. Take time to think and if you think you will fail, I give you the chance to call me and hand over power to me in a peaceful way. You have only seven days. If you do not do any of these, I will come to the White House and your fate will be in my hands.” he added.
Why was Nuru Okanga arrested?
Elsewhere, Nuru Okanga was charged in court for allegedly using offensive language against Ruto.
Authorities charged him with publishing false information under Section 23 of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act.
Prosecutors said the remarks recorded in the video were aimed at damaging the president’s reputation and inciting public outrage.
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