Gatundu TikToker Arrested Over Threats to President Ruto Announces Release

By : Mweru Mbugua 

Peter Maingi Kimani, popularly known as Menelik Kimani, has confirmed his release days after being arrested over a viral TikTok video in which he allegedly challenged President William Ruto and called for a battlefield confrontation

Kimani was apprehended by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on February 26 in the Gachage area of Kiganjo, Gatundu South Sub-County. Authorities said he had gone into hiding after posting the controversial clip earlier in the week

The TikToker resurfaced online on Sunday using a new account, stating that he was released on February 27 but that his mobile phone remains in police custody

“Hey guys, it’s Menelik Kimani. I was arrested on Thursday and released on Friday. I am home and okay. The main problem is my phone is being withheld by the police, but I have a new account, so kindly follow it,” he said in a video message

Activist Mwabili Mwagodi earlier confirmed visiting Kimani at his parents’ home in Cura village, Kiganjo, following his release. He questioned the legality of the DCI’s decision to confiscate Kimani’s phone without what he described as a court order

“He was released on Friday at 4:00pm. We have gotten him an advocate and he is speaking with the advocate. The only time DCI is supposed to take your phone is when it is ordered by a magistrate or a judge,” Mwagodi said

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Kimani’s arrest sparked mixed reactions among members of the public. While some criticized security agencies for pursuing a social media user over remarks directed at the Head of State, others argued that his statements crossed legal boundaries governing freedom of expression and amounted to a punishable offence

The matter continues to draw debate over the limits of online speech and the enforcement of laws concerning threats against public officials in Kenya