Social media activist Francis Gaitho has praised the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) officers for professionalism during his interrogation over his postings on Kware killings.
Gaitho presented himself to DCI for questioning on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, before he was presented in court on Thursday, July 18. He was later released on a cash bail of Ksh30,000.
After his release, he took to his X account to explain what transpired at DCI and said he is thankful for the professionalism accorded and also for the fact that he was not manhandled.
“Yesterday, July 17, 2024, I presented myself at the DCI Headquarters following reports that I was being sought after due to a tweet related to the Kware massacre.
“Upon arriving, we were referred to the DCI Nairobi Area, where the team processing my statement was awaiting, led by DCI Head of Serious Crime Unit Michael Sang.
“My lawyers, led by Senior Counsel John Khaminwa, Dudley Ochiel, and Austine Katinya, were present during the entire interrogation, as I was informed that the complaint arose from sharing the identity of one person linked to the unfortunate happenings at Kware dumpsite.
“I also thank the DCI for their professionalism and courtesy throughout the process. At no time was I harmed or victimized,” Gaitho said.
Push for freedom
While he was at the DCI offices, Kenyans took to social media to demand his release, and Gaitho has thanked those who pushed for his freedom.
“I’d also like to thank Kenyans of goodwill who stood in solidarity with their comrades in the struggle, either through hashtags, monetary support, legal aid, or even shielding those evading persecution.
“To withstand the psychological pressure exerted by propagandists projecting your friends, loved ones, colleagues, and proponents of the movement as criminals just for the simple act of clamouring for their constitutional and human rights, is the highest form of stoicism and patriotism.
“You are the real heroes,” he said.
His case will be mentioned on August 1, 2024, for pre-trial.