Listers,
This case raises critical questions about digital rights, responsible online speech, and fair legal penalties. While defamation laws protect individuals, a KSh 7.5M fine for a student seems excessive and may set a worrying precedent.
Digital literacy is essential to help users understand the consequences of online statements, but courts must also ensure that penalties are proportionate. Should alternative remedies—such as structured compensation or public corrections—be considered in cases involving young individuals?
Balancing accountability and fairness is key to fostering responsible digital discourse without imposing undue burdens. As internet governance evolves, justice must remain accessible and reasonable for all.
My 2 cents
Twahir
Not really it's okay it serves as a good lesson to those who love defaming people aimlessly._______________________________________________On Wed, May 28, 2025, 10:41 AM Mwendwa Kivuva via KICTANet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:Is this defamation judgement excessive?A third-year law student at the University of Nairobi, Kevin Ndung’u, has been ordered by an Eldoret court to pay KSh 7.5 million in damages for defaming Benard Kagia, the driver of Prophet David Owuor of the Repentance and Holiness Ministry. The defamation case arose after Ndung’u made Facebook posts accusing Kagia of infidelity and claiming he could not take care of his family, which reportedly led to the breakdown of Kagia’s marriage.
Kagia filed a libel case, arguing the comments were harmful and defamatory. Chief Magistrate Dennis Mikoyan ruled in Kagia’s favor, stating that the statements were indeed defamatory and emphasizing the serious legal consequences of making such remarks online. Ndung’u protested the hefty fine, telling the court he had no assets or property to pay the amount ordered. The matter is set for further directions on May 28, 2025.
https://nation.africa/kenya/counties/uasin-gishu/uon-student-sh7-5m-fine-for-defaming-prophet-owuor-driver-5059120_______________________________________________
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of Policy Advocacy, Capacity Building, Research, and Stakeholder Engagement.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's
times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your
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