CHARLENE RUTO DROPS LAWSUIT AFTER SETTLEMENT WITH AUTHOR

Charlene Ruto, daughter of President William Ruto, has withdrawn her case against author Webster Ochora Eliah after reaching an out-of-court settlement.

The case revolved around a book titled Beyond the Name, which Ochora allegedly published without her consent. Charlene had accused him of impersonation, copyright violation, and exploiting her name for profit. The withdrawal was made under section 176 of the Criminal Procedure Code and article 159(2)(c) of the Constitution, which promote reconciliation and alternative dispute resolution over lengthy trials.

As part of the agreement, Ochora issued a public apology, which Charlene accepted in good faith. The settlement also bars the author from publishing, distributing, or transferring rights to the book. Should he violate these terms, Charlene reserves the right to pursue civil action despite the criminal case being dropped.

Filed as MCCR No. 314 of 2025, the matter was officially withdrawn on Monday but will return to the Milimani Magistrate’s Court on October 6 for formal closure. Legal experts suggest the case could set a precedent for resolving disputes involving unauthorised biographies in Kenya. Charlene emphasized that while protecting her name and reputation was essential, her decision to forgive reflects her commitment to responsible leadership and her stance against defamation, impersonation, and online abuse that threaten personal dignity.