This archive report was first published on 16 August 2019.
October 20th, 2017, marked a dramatic day at the Appeals Court when blogger Abraham Kiplagat, also known as Lord Mutai, made a shocking move by replacing his lawyer, Nelson Havi, with Anthony Gitonga and Evans Lagat.
Lord Mutai had filed a case to appeal the High Court ruling that allowed Third Way Alliance candidate Ekuro Aukot to be included in the October 26 elections.
According to Nelson Havi, Lord Mutai's initial lawyer, his client had been convinced to withdraw the case after receiving threatening messages from several individuals.
Lord Mutai was allegedly threatened with death if he failed to comply or paid 7 million shillings to withdraw the case and fire his lawyer, which he did.
The incident highlights the challenges faced by NASA bloggers, who operate under tough conditions with threats against their lives.
However, the case also raises questions about the motivations behind Lord Mutai's actions, with some speculating that financial greed may have played a role in his decision.
As opposition bloggers have turned their craft into a money-making machine, some have questioned whether they are driven by a desire for a better Kenya or merely waiting for the right time to cash in.
