Korogocho MCA Absalom Odhiambo has fired back at the Nation Media Group after it published an explosive front-page article linking him to a violent gang attack during Tuesday’s anti-police brutality protests in Nairobi.
Odhiambo, speaking through a fiery social media video on Thursday, June 19, denied claims that he organized or led goons to suppress demonstrators.
He now threatens legal action against the media house, accusing it of character assassination and publishing unverified information that has tarnished his name.
Korogocho MCA Dismisses Allegations in Nation Media Report
The controversial article, published by the Daily Nation and headlined “How Chaos Was Planned in the City,” painted Odhiambo as a key player in orchestrating the chaos that erupted during the June 17 protests.
The report featured images of Odhiambo, Police Spokesperson Michael Muchiri, and a well-known grassroots activist called “Gaucho,” linking all three to the alleged plot to use goons to counter peaceful protesters. But Odhiambo says the accusations are false and politically motivated.
“I woke up today to propaganda in Nairobi saying I organised goons to battle protesters. I want to appeal to Nation Media, present the evidence. If you don’t, I will sue,” he said.
The MCA insisted he was nowhere near the protest scenes when the violence unfolded in Nairobi’s Central Business District. He claimed he was engaged in an interview with another media outlet and urged investigators to trace his phone location to confirm his whereabouts during the incident.
“If I was involved in any planning of these protests, I want you (Nation) to investigate me. Trace my phone because you’ve ruined my reputation,” Odhiambo added.
He further said that he has always supported peaceful demonstrations and could never take part in planning criminal activities that cause destruction and pain to fellow Nairobi residents.
Legal Threats and Public Denials as Pressure Mounts
Odhiambo is not backing down. He declared that unless Nation Media produces hard proof linking him to the organised violence, he will move to court for defamation. He blamed the media house for damaging his credibility and called the front-page placement of his image a deliberate attempt to incite public anger against him.
“You cannot destroy my name and expect me to stay quiet. I will not be your scapegoat,” the MCA stated.
His strong response comes in the wake of a social media storm that has gripped Nairobi since Tuesday’s protest turned violent. Videos circulating online captured goons in action—some robbing civilians, others brutally beating up demonstrators on Kimathi Street in broad daylight.
In some clips, the attackers allegedly shouted out Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja’s name, accusing him of sponsoring their presence. Governor Sakaja has since denied those allegations.
“We categorically dissociate ourselves from any gangs, militias, or politically sponsored groups that exploit demonstrations to engage in criminal activity,” Sakaja said in a Thursday statement.
“We strongly condemn the destruction of public and private property witnessed last week, perpetrated by hired goons brought in from outside Nairobi.”
Despite Sakaja’s denial, pressure has mounted on both county and national leaders to come clean about their roles—if any—in enabling violence against demonstrators. Odhiambo’s inclusion in the list of alleged orchestrators has only intensified scrutiny.
Growing Calls for Accountability and Media Ethics
The Nation Media report has sparked intense debate over responsible journalism, political propaganda, and the dangers of unverified reporting. Critics argue that media houses must ensure accuracy before publishing allegations that could ruin reputations or expose individuals to danger.
Supporters of the Korogocho MCA have rallied behind him online, claiming the media is being used to silence grassroots leaders who support public dissent and youth mobilisation.
Odhiambo, who has previously taken part in citywide protests, insists that he remains committed to non-violence and democratic freedoms. He wants his name cleared and has urged the National Police Service and investigative agencies to go after the real culprits.
“Don’t use me to hide the real criminals. I am not one of them,” he said.
As the dust settles from Tuesday’s chaos, Kenyans are watching closely to see whether Nation Media will respond to Odhiambo’s demands—or face a legal showdown that could shake the media and political establishment.
