Social media activist and former abductee Billy Mwangi has raised alarm over serious threats to his life following a controversial post that allegedly targeted the father of Albert Ojwang, the young man who died in police custody. Mwangi, 24, says he’s been targeted by unknown individuals after a post from an X account bearing his name criticized Meshack Ojwang for allegedly accepting KSh2 million from President William Ruto. He has denied authoring the post, claiming his account is suspended and his identity has been hijacked. The threats against Billy Mwangi raise fresh questions about the safety of political activists and bloggers in Kenya. His case also highlights a growing pattern where social media is weaponized to harass, impersonate, or silence dissenting voices. [Photo: Courtesy] Billy Mwangi Says He Reported Threats to DCI But No Action Taken Mwangi told reporters on Thursday, June 19, that he had gone to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) headquarters on Kiambu Road to file a complaint after receiving threatening text messages. According to him, police took no action. “It is true that I have been receiving threats through text messages on my phone. I have tried reporting the matter to the DCI, but no action has been taken so far,” Mwangi said. He explained that the threats started circulating after an X account under his name posted the personal phone number of Albert Ojwang, encouraging followers to “greet him” for allegedly allowing his father to accept money from the President.
The message was widely interpreted as an incitement against the grieving family.
Mwangi, however, denied being behind the inflammatory post, saying his X account had been suspended weeks earlier and he had no control over the fake account impersonating him. “My X account is currently suspended. It was suspended because I changed the password several times, not because of any wrong post. But soon I will be back,” he added. He believes the impersonation is part of a wider scheme to destroy his reputation and endanger his life. Billy Mwangi Denies Authoring Viral Post and Says His Identity Was Hijacked The blogger believes that his growing popularity and bold political statements have made him a target for silencing. Mwangi first gained national attention in December last year after claiming he was abducted and later released under mysterious circumstances.
That incident left many Kenyans questioning who might be behind the growing wave of intimidation targeting outspoken online activists.
In the latest twist, Mwangi claims that unknown individuals created fake social media accounts using his name, intending to turn public sentiment against him by linking him to posts targeting Ojwang’s grieving family. “I began receiving these messages after an X account bearing my name shared Albert Ojwang’s number. I never posted anything like that. People want to frame me,” he said. The controversial KSh2 million token given to Meshack Ojwang by President Ruto has sharply divided public opinion, with some Kenyans calling it blood money and others viewing it as a gesture of compassion. Mwangi says his name is now being used to inflame the debate—and put his life at risk.
He is now calling for police protection and urging the DCI to investigate those behind the fake accounts. Mwangi Eyes 2027 Embu Senate Bid Despite Threats Despite the growing threats, Billy Mwangi says he won’t be silenced. In fact, he’s doubling down on his commitment to justice and free speech.
On June 1, during a youth rally in Embu Town, Mwangi announced that he would be vying for the Embu Senate seat in the 2027 general election. “I will stand up for the youth. For free speech and justice. I ask the people of Embu to support my bid,” he declared boldly. He also made an appeal to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua , asking for his support and even requesting a government job to help him prepare for public service.
The announcement sparked a wave of reactions online. While some praised his bravery and passion, others questioned his political motives and alleged ties to opposition elements.
Still, Mwangi insists his cause is noble and rooted in the growing frustration among young Kenyans who feel shut out of politics and silenced when they speak up. “People want me to disappear because I speak the truth. But I will not stop. I survived abduction. I will survive this too,” he said.