The High Court has scheduled January 22, 2026, for the hearing of a defamation case filed by former Cabinet Secretary Richard Echesa against COTU Secretary General Seth Panyako and two media entities. Echesa is seeking injunctive relief over what he describes as defamatory statements that were allegedly published and broadcast against him, portraying him in an extremely damaging light.
Claims of Defamation
In his court application, the former CS argues that the statements in question were presented as facts rather than opinion, and were deliberately crafted to depict him as a violent criminal, including allegations of murder, arson, and leadership of violent groups. According to Echesa, the publications imputed the commission of serious criminal offences, exposing him to public hatred, ridicule, contempt, and reputational harm.
Strong Denial of Allegations
Echesa has firmly denied all accusations, describing them as false, malicious, reckless, and entirely without factual or legal foundation. He maintains that he has never:
- Led or commanded any violent group
- Participated in criminal activity
- Engaged in arson, homicide, or unlawful conduct
He further states that no criminal charges have ever been brought against him in relation to the claims made in the broadcasts.
Media Houses Accused of Negligence
The former CS has also faulted the YouTube channels and media houses listed as the second and third defendants, including Obinna TV. He accuses them of exercising full editorial and operational control over the content while failing to:
- Verify the allegations
- Seek his response before publication
- Take down the material even after a formal demand
Echesa argues that this conduct makes the media entities jointly and severally liable for the alleged defamation.
Reputational Damage and Personal Distress
According to court filings, Echesa says the publications have subjected him to intense public hostility, including disturbing calls and messages from members of the public, colleagues, and family. He adds that the allegations have severely damaged his reputation, both as a former Cabinet Secretary and as the current chairperson of a national statutory body, undermining public trust in his leadership and impairing his ability to perform his duties effectively.
Demand for Apology and Retraction
Through his lawyers, Kimani & Company Advocates, Echesa says he issued a demand for retraction and apology on December 5, 2025, but claims the defendants either ignored or declined to comply. He argues that this refusal demonstrates malice and reckless disregard for the truth.
Orders Sought
Echesa is asking the court to:
- Declare the statements defamatory
- Issue a permanent injunction barring further publication
- Compel an unqualified retraction and unconditional apology, to be published as a full-page advertisement in a national daily newspaper
- Award general and aggravated damages, as well as costs and interest
Court Directions
In interim orders, the High Court directed that the application be served on all respondents and fixed the matter for an inter-partes hearing on January 22, 2026.
