JSS teacher charged with impersonating President Ruto’s daughter

A Junior Secondary School (JSS) teacher was arraigned in court on Thursday afternoon following accusations of impersonating President William Ruto's daughter, June Ruto, on social media.

Samwel Mogwasi Mainga was arrested on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, in Mombasa County for allegedly violating the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act.

He was reportedly apprehended while attending a sports event, leaving his students unattended, according to his lawyer.

In an affidavit presented to the Chief Magistrate’s Court at Milimani, lead investigator P.C Peter Mwangi confirmed that the investigation is ongoing.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has requested more time to gather critical evidence, including documents from the suspect’s social media accounts and additional witness testimonies.

Authorities have expressed concerns that Mainga may attempt to flee the jurisdiction, citing uncertainty about his current residence. As such, investigators are seeking an additional seven days to complete their inquiry.

However, Mainga’s defense lawyer, Danstan Omari, opposed the request, asserting that his client is a registered teacher with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and has a permanent residence.

Omari also argued that forensic analysis of social media accounts and the recording of witness statements could proceed without Mainga’s continued detention, which he said would violate his client’s constitutional rights.

The court is expected to rule on the application for extended detention on Friday.