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A Kenyan author is facing possible prosecution after publishing a controversial book focused on Charlene Ruto, the daughter of President William Ruto. The book, whose title and full content remain undisclosed to the public, reportedly explores Charlene’s public appearances, influence in government-related circles, and her controversial use of the term “Office of the First Daughter” a designation not officially recognized by Kenyan law.
Charlene Ruto first attracted national attention in late 2022 when she conducted multiple high-profile meetings and philanthropic engagements while presenting herself as operating from the so-called “Office of the First Daughter.” Her activities triggered public debate and political scrutiny, with critics questioning the funding and constitutional basis for her involvement in state-adjacent affairs. The situation escalated to the point where President William Ruto was compelled to publicly clarify the matter. In January 2023, during a public forum, he stated, “Leave my daughter Charlene alone… she is just being the daughter of William Ruto,” distancing the presidency from any formal establishment of such an office.
According to legal sources, the author behind the book has been summoned by law enforcement agencies and is under investigation for allegedly publishing defamatory or unauthorized material relating to a member of the First Family. While the government has not officially confirmed charges, several media outlets have reported that authorities are examining whether the publication breaches Kenya’s laws on privacy, defamation, or national security.
This is not the first time a Kenyan author has faced state scrutiny over politically sensitive writing. In 2017, writer Newton Ochieng’ Ong’ele, also known by his pen name Babior, was interrogated and briefly detained over his book The Raila Conspiracy, which examined the political trajectory of then-opposition leader Raila Odinga. Babior later claimed he was harassed and detained without formal charges raising alarm among human rights advocates about growing threats to freedom of expression.
Kenya’s Constitution guarantees the right to free speech and expression, including freedom of the press. However, this right is not absolute and can be curtailed under laws aimed at protecting national security, public morality, and individual privacy. Legal experts and civil society groups have voiced concern that pursuing legal action against the author could have a chilling effect on literary and journalistic freedom in Kenya.
Charlene Ruto, now a familiar figure in youth empowerment and climate advocacy circles, has not officially commented on the publication or the investigation. She continues to make appearances at local and international forums, but remains a polarizing figure, largely due to the ambiguity surrounding her public role and how it intersects with her father’s presidency.
As of now, the case remains under review by Kenyan authorities, with no formal charges yet filed against the author. Human rights organizations, literary forums, and international observers are closely watching how the case unfolds, viewing it as a potential bellwether for the state of free speech and artistic freedom in Kenya under President Ruto’s administration.
