Activist David Morara Kebaso has been Arrested and Charged with Cyber Harassment.

 

The #FreeMorara movement continues to trend across social media platforms in Kenya, capturing widespread attention following the arrest of 28-year-old lawyer and activist David Morara Kebaso. Despite his release on cash bail, the hashtag remains a rallying cry for citizens and commentators who view his detention as an attack on free speech and an attempt to suppress activism against corruption. Kebaso’s arrest, tied to his outspoken criticisms of government officials and allegations of corruption, has brought to the forefront key debates around freedom of speech, government transparency, and the role of activism in modern Kenya.

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David Morara Kebaso’s rise to prominence was fueled by his use of social media to expose alleged corruption and call for government reforms. As a lawyer and business professional, Kebaso has leveraged his legal knowledge to back his claims with detailed accusations, naming high-ranking officials and business figures. His posts, which directly criticized influential personalities, were seen as a bold attempt to hold the powerful accountable. However, these actions led to his arrest under charges of cyber harassment, a move that many view as an effort to silence his growing influence.

The arrest came after Kebaso’s posts targeting key figures, including businessman David Langat and President William Ruto, accusing them of financial misconduct and corruption. His supporters argue that these allegations highlight a larger issue of unchecked corruption within the Kenyan government, making his activism a much-needed voice in the fight for accountability. However, critics claim that Kebaso’s methods border on defamation, raising questions about the ethical boundaries of activism and the responsibilities that come with making public accusations online.

 

Following his arrest, Morara was released on a Sh 50,000 cash bail, but his legal team has vigorously contested the charges, describing them as “defective.” They argue that the charges infringe on his constitutional right to free speech, protected under Kenyan law, and that the use of cyber harassment laws in this context represents an overreach of legal authority. The charges have thus sparked a broader debate about the application of cyber laws in Kenya and whether they are being misused to suppress dissent.

Public support for Kebaso has been overwhelming, with the hashtag #FreeMorara continuing to trend even after his release. This sustained momentum reflects a broader societal concern about shrinking spaces for free speech in Kenya. Many citizens, particularly the youth, view Kebaso’s case as symbolic of the struggle against government overreach and the efforts to stifle opposition voices. Social commentators have also weighed in, emphasizing the need for open dialogue and accountability in governance, rather than punitive measures against those who speak out.

The #FreeMorara movement has ignited a national conversation about the state of democracy in Kenya, particularly in relation to how the government responds to critics. Kebaso’s arrest is seen by many as a litmus test for the country’s commitment to upholding democratic principles, including the protection of free speech and the right to hold leaders accountable. The continued push for justice, despite Kebaso’s release, signifies that the public is not only concerned with his individual case but with the broader implications for activists and whistleblowers across the country.

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Kebaso himself has remained defiant, stating that no amount of intimidation will silence him or deter his activism. This resilience has only strengthened his following, with supporters continuing to advocate for his cause, seeing it as a fight for the soul of Kenya’s democracy. His case has drawn the attention of both local and international media, further amplifying the conversation about freedom of expression and the role of the judiciary in handling politically sensitive cases.

In conclusion, the #FreeMorara movement is more than just a campaign for one activist's freedom. It is a reflection of the growing frustrations with corruption, the government’s handling of dissent, and the shrinking space for free speech in Kenya. As the case against David Morara Kebaso unfolds, it will likely continue to be a significant indicator of Kenya’s democratic health, testing the limits of government power, the judiciary's role, and the resilience of its civil society.

Video credit: Ntv