Social media influencer Scophine Aoko Otieno, widely known as Maverick Aoko, was arraigned before the Milimani Law Courts on Monday, facing charges related to the publication of false information on her ‘X’ account.
Aoko, who spent the weekend in police custody following her arrest on Friday morning, was charged with disseminating false, defamatory, and threatening information through her social media platform, where she goes by the handle Maverick Aoko (@AokoOtieno).
The prosecution alleges that on August 3, 2024, Aoko posted defamatory content targeting Beth Wambui Mbuitu. The controversial post read: “Maze it disorients me to say this…but Amber Ray is innocent…if you find me thrown Kware, refer to this tweet…ask how Jamal moved from Makanga wa South C to Matatu boss…” Authorities claim Aoko knowingly published this information with the intent to damage Mbuitu’s reputation.
In addition to the charge of publishing false information, Aoko faces two other counts related to cyber harassment and the fraudulent use of electronic data. The charges also stem from statements made about individuals identified as ‘Amber Ray’ and ‘Jamal.’
Appearing before Chief Magistrate Susan Shitubi, Aoko pleaded not guilty to all charges. Her legal team appealed for leniency in setting bail terms, citing her status as a journalist.
Magistrate Shitubi released Aoko on a bond of Ksh 200,000 or, alternatively, a cash bail of Ksh 100,000. The case is scheduled for mention on September 2, 2024, for pre-trial proceedings.
