COURT

ROBERT ALAI FACES KSH 60 MILLION DEFAMATION SUIT FROM VETERAN BROADCASTER FRED OBACHI MACHOKA

Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai is being sued for KSh 60 million by veteran broadcaster Fred Obachi Machoka for defamation. Machoka accuses Alai of using a Facebook account in his name to falsely claim he is HIV positive, mentally unstable, and a tribalist. Alai denies owning the account, but lawyer Danstan Omari has presented evidence linking the same account to him in past cases. The high-profile matter is currently before the High Court.

NYANCHIRI

Jun 4, 2026 - 11:35

Jun 4, 2026 - 11:39

ROBERT ALAI FACES KSH 60 MILLION DEFAMATION SUIT FROM VETERAN BROADCASTER FRED OBACHI

MACHOKANairobi, Kenya

— Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai is embroiled in a high-stakes defamation lawsuit that could cost him KSh 60 million after veteran broadcaster Fred Obachi Machoka dragged him to the High Court.

The case revolves around a Facebook account operating under Alai’s name that allegedly published damaging posts claiming that Machoka is HIV positive, mentally unstable, and a tribalist. The posts reportedly tagged Machoka’s official Facebook page, making the targeting direct and public.

Fred Obachi Machoka, popularly known for his long-running programme Roga Roga and a broadcasting career spanning over 47 years, testified before the court that the publications caused him significant emotional distress and subjected him to public ridicule.

Alai’s Defence

Robert Alai, whose full name is Robert Alai Onyango, has strongly denied ownership of the Facebook account. He told the court that he does not own or operate any Facebook account and had no knowledge of the offending posts.

However, this defence is facing serious challenges. Machoka’s lawyer, prominent advocate Danstan Omari, has presented evidence showing that the same Facebook account has been used in previous legal matters involving Alai. Court records reportedly indicate that as far back as 2020, government agencies sued Alai over posts made from that very account.

Omari argued that Alai cannot credibly claim the account belongs to a stranger while it has consistently been used to advance his interests and public battles over the years.

High Stakes

The sum of KSh 60 million demanded in damages is substantial. Legal observers note that Kenyan courts have in recent years awarded significant amounts in defamation cases, especially where the plaintiff’s reputation and livelihood are severely affected.

Machoka’s long and illustrious career in broadcasting makes him a well-known public figure, a factor that may weigh heavily in the court’s assessment of damages.

As the case continues, Alai’s courtroom strategy of completely denying ownership of the account is seen by many as risky. If the court rules that the account indeed belongs to him or was operated with his knowledge, he could face not only a heavy financial penalty but also further damage to his political reputation.

This matter comes at a time when public figures in Kenya continue to use social media aggressively, raising questions about accountability, digital responsibility, and the growing use of defamation suits to settle online disputes.

The High Court is expected to give directions on the way forward as both parties prepare for the next hearing.