Fred Obachi Machoka sues Robert Alai for Ksh 60M over defamatory facebook post

Veteran radio presenter Fred Obachi Machoka has taken legal action against Nairobi MCA Robert Alai, accusing him of defamation. Machoka is seeking 60 million Kenya shillings in damages after Alai allegedly published a Facebook post claiming Machoka is HIV positive, mentally unstable, and a tribalist.

Machoka, known for his popular show Roga Roga, filed the suit through his lawyer Danstan Omari. In the court documents, Machoka says the post was not only false but also intended to destroy his hard-earned reputation. The post in question directly tagged Machoka and read, in part: “@Fred Obachi Machoka OGW I feel your ethnic rage. It’s just ethnic. Your problem is supply of ARVs not Presidency… Does HIV bring insanity nowadays?”

According to Omari, the message clearly targeted Machoka and left no room for doubt. He described the post as malicious and defamatory, stating it was designed to provoke public ridicule. Machoka strongly denied all the claims, saying he is HIV negative, mentally sound, and has never engaged in tribal politics.

In his sworn affidavit, Machoka questioned the legality of Alai’s comments, especially regarding health matters. He stressed that publicly accusing someone of having a medical condition without evidence is both harmful and irresponsible. On the issue of tribalism, he insisted he has always promoted peace and unity in his decades-long media career.

Machoka’s team also pointed out that with over 480,000 Facebook followers, Alai’s post had wide reach and caused significant damage. They argue the case should set an example in how online platforms are used and remind public figures of their responsibility. The case now heads to court, sparking a fresh debate on digital defamation and personal dignity in the age of social media.