This archive report was first published on 2 January 2022.
On Sunday, December 2, 2022, Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua caused confusion among Kenyans with a misleading social media post announcing the death of Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka's wife, Pauline.
Mutua's post, which has since been deleted, was a condolence message to the family of the former Vice-President, Kalonzo Musyoka.
However, the governor quickly retracted the statement, apologizing to Kalonzo and Kenyans for sharing unverified information.
Some online news outlets had already circulated the story before Mutua deleted his post.
He claimed that he was misled by the Wiper leader's kin with unconfirmed information.
"I wish to apologize for the earlier post about the family of H.E Kalonzo Musyoka. This was as a result of misinformation and a hoax from several players, some seemingly credible and close to H.E Kalonzo, who made it seem like a message to me about the family," he wrote.
Bungoma Senator Moses Wetangula criticized Mutua, saying it was unfortunate that a leader of his caliber could post such alarming information.
"I'm in a meeting with Steve Kalonzo and Cyrus Jirongo at Steve's residence. Mama Pauline is alive, safe, and sound. This is fake news at the highest crudity," Wetangula said.
