By Andrew Kariuki

Kakamega Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda Busihile has filed a lawsuit against eight individuals over what she describes as a sustained online campaign of defamatory statements targeting her.

In documents filed at the Milimani Magistrate’s Court, the legislator accuses Fabian Musamia, Peter Angatia, Joel Eshkumo, Dennis Weche, Dan Makori Kibwage, Janet Wasike, Melisa Awuor and Tariq Shitiabai of publishing and widely circulating false and malicious claims about her across blogs and social media platforms.

Through her lawyer Danstan Omari, Muhanda argues that the publications have severely damaged her reputation, exposing her to public ridicule, embarrassment and emotional distress.

According to the court filings, the contested posts allege that the MP is an alcohol abuser and accuse her of engaging in inappropriate conduct involving young men at a facility identified as Amanda Resort in Kakamega.

She has, however, strongly denied the claims, terming them false, malicious and intended to tarnish her image as a public office holder.

Muhanda further states that the management of the said establishment has publicly dismissed the allegations, confirming that the specific details referenced in the claims are inaccurate.

The MP contends that the continued circulation of the content online poses ongoing harm to her personal and political standing, warning that the viral nature of social media could worsen the situation if not addressed urgently.

In the suit, she is seeking court orders to restrain the defendants from publishing or sharing any further alleged defamatory content about her on any platform.

She is also asking the court to compel them to delete existing posts, issue a public apology with equal prominence, and formally retract the statements.

Additionally, Muhanda is seeking KSh 10 million in general damages for libel and slander, as well as the costs of the case.

The application has been filed under a certificate of urgency, with the legislator arguing that immediate court intervention is necessary to prevent further damage to her reputation.

The case is expected to proceed as the court issues directions on the application.