President William Ruto’s daughter, Charlene Ruto, has chosen to forgive author Webster Ochora Elijah, opting to settle their legal dispute out of court in a bid to spotlight the broader issue of online defamation and abuse.
Ochora had come under legal scrutiny for publishing a book about Charlene without her consent, prompting legal action from her team, Kachapin & Company Advocates.
However, in a statement issued Monday, July 28, Charlene said she was moved by Ochora’s repeated appeals and personal remorse.
“His words and the sincerity behind them have touched me deeply,” she said. “Taking responsibility is a demonstration of strength and character.”
Describing herself as a youth advocate and believer in responsible dialogue, Charlene said her decision reflects a commitment to peace-building and empathy in the digital age. She emphasized that the case was never just about her but a reflection of society’s deteriorating online culture.
“It was about the normalization of online hostility, defamation, and careless destruction of reputations—all amplified by the internet’s reach and anonymity,” she stated.
The first daughter also warned against equating public life with the erosion of personal rights. “Public visibility should never cost you your right to safety, truth, privacy, or respect,” she noted.
While the matter is still set for formal mention in court on August 19, both parties are expected to record a mutual settlement.
Charlene thanked the Judiciary and National Police Service for handling the matter professionally and urged Kenyans to help build a more respectful and humane digital society.
“Online defamation and hate are not activism—they are a form of violence,” she said.
