LSK president condemns attack on Mombasa-based blogger

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo has strongly condemned the alleged assault on Mombasa-based blogger Bruce John. 

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Ms Odhiambo described the ordeal as a reflection of impunity within the country's leadership and called for immediate action from law enforcement authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Ms Odhiambo stated that the treatment of Bruce John highlights "everything that is wrong with the leadership of our country," criticising the lack of humanity and disregard for human rights. 

She called on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to act swiftly and for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to press charges against those responsible.

Amidst the public outcry, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, who has been dragged in the controversy, gave an emotional presser on the matter, sharing his version of the events.

He expressed deep frustration over the allegations, emphasizing that neither he nor his family had any involvement in violent acts.

Governor Nassir said, “This is a very trying moment for both me and my family. For those of you who know me, I have been in this political field for over a decade, and neither myself nor any of my family members have ever crossed the line of metting any form of violence on anyone.”

Mr Nassir explained that his family had been victims of violence themselves, recounting incidents in which his mother’s house had been invaded twice. 

He noted that in both instances, reports were made to the authorities, and that CCTV footage had been handed over to the police. 

However, he expressed concern that these incidents were now being twisted for political purposes.

"My mother’s house was invaded, not once but twice, and in both cases, nothing else was taken except a laptop and a mobile phone,” he shared. 

“It’s shocking that it's now being deemed for public perception that both myself and my 74-year-old mother would be part of a heinous act of this magnitude.”

He also revealed that the young blogger had sent him over 800 messages, to which he never responded, adding that he had no prior knowledge of the alleged assault. 

He stated that he was informed by a doctor at Coast General Hospital that Bruce John had not even been admitted, despite claims to the contrary.

The Governor expressed his frustration with what he termed ‘the political manipulation of the incident’, saying, “This is now being used for political reasons. I’m more than willing to state my side to the authorities and clear my name in this matter.”

While he sympathised with the young blogger’s situation, Mr Nassir reiterated that he had no involvement in the alleged attack and was determined to ensure that those behind the false accusations would be held accountable.

The case has sparked significant public interest, and the LSK’s call for justice has increased pressure on the DCI and ODPP to investigate the allegations thoroughly. As the story continues to unfold, all eyes are on the authorities to ensure justice is served.