Govt Denies Allegations of Spying Software Plot Against Political Rivals

NAIROBI, Kenya – The government has rejected claims that President William Ruto’s administration sought to deploy spying software against political rivals, following a controversial report published by Daily Nation.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, Chris Kiptoo, the Principal Secretary of the National Treasury, condemned the article, which alleged that government officials were involved in a covert plan to procure classified surveillance technology for political purposes.

Kiptoo described the report as “unfounded” and “misleading.”

The Daily Nation story, titled “Ruto Men Sued Over ‘Classified’ Spying Software,” featured Kiptoo’s image and tied him to an alleged scheme to use taxpayer funds to acquire the technology.

Kiptoo, however, denied any involvement or knowledge of the events described, including any connection to a key individual cited in the article.

“I have never met or interacted with Ms. Mary Wachuka Maina, the person reportedly suing over this matter. I have no knowledge of her claims, nor of any plans by the government to procure the equipment mentioned,” Kiptoo stated, also rejecting claims of “confidential accounts” within the National Treasury that could have been used to fund such an operation.

Kiptoo further emphasized that the Treasury operates under stringent legal and regulatory frameworks that ensure accountability and transparency.

“There are no secret accounts within the National Treasury, and any suggestion otherwise is entirely false,” he asserted.

The PS also voiced frustration over Daily Nation’s failure to conduct due diligence before publishing the story, calling the decision to feature his photograph alongside the baseless allegations an act of defamation.

“The publication of this story, without proper verification, has damaged my reputation and created false associations between myself and the claims made,” Kiptoo remarked.

Expressing disappointment with the newspaper’s journalistic standards, Kiptoo demanded an immediate retraction of the article and a public apology.

He warned that if the media house failed to comply, he would explore legal options to protect his reputation.

“This article has caused me significant harm,” Kiptoo said. “I urge all media outlets to adhere to the highest standards of accuracy, fairness, and professionalism, as outlined in the Media Council Act and the Code of Conduct for Journalism in Kenya.”