TREASURY PS KIPTOO REJECTS ‘SPYING SOFTWARE’ CLAIMS, THREATENS LEGAL ACTION

BY REUBEN MUSONIK

Treasury Principal Secretary (PS) Chris Kiptoo has firmly rejected allegations that he is involved in plans to procure sophisticated “spying software” for political purposes ahead of Kenya’s 2027 General Elections. Responding to a recent article by the Nation Media Group (NMG) titled “Ruto Men Sued Over ‘Classified’ Spying Software”, Kiptoo described the claims as baseless and defamatory.

Kiptoo Denies Allegations

In a statement issued on Tuesday, November 26, Kiptoo denounced the report, which featured his photograph, suggesting he was implicated in a government-led scheme to acquire classified technology for propaganda and surveillance.

“These allegations are entirely unfounded,” Kiptoo stated via the National Treasury’s official X (formerly Twitter) account.

The article further alleged that “confidential accounts” within the Treasury had been earmarked to fund the covert procurement. Kiptoo strongly refuted this claim, emphasizing the strict regulatory frameworks governing Treasury operations.

“No such accounts exist,” he asserted. “The operations of the National Treasury are subject to rigorous legal and regulatory oversight that ensures transparency and accountability.”

Legal Action on the Horizon

Kiptoo accused the Nation Media Group of defamation, particularly due to its use of his image in association with the allegations. He stated that the portrayal had created a false narrative, causing reputational harm.

“It is deeply concerning that the newspaper would publish such a misleading article without conducting due diligence,” he remarked.

The PS demanded the immediate removal of the article from the media outlet’s platforms and a public apology. Should NMG fail to comply, Kiptoo vowed to pursue legal recourse, citing his right to protect his reputation.

“I call on all media outlets to uphold the highest standards of journalism, as mandated by the Media Council Act and the Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism in Kenya,” Kiptoo added.

Clarifications from the Treasury

Kiptoo also dismissed claims of a lawsuit being filed against government officials over the alleged software procurement. He clarified that he has no knowledge of the purported scheme and has never met the individual allegedly involved in filing the petition.

Additionally, he reiterated his unawareness of any such procurement plans, distancing himself from the accusations entirely.

Concerns Over Media Ethics

While the Treasury PS acknowledged a historically positive working relationship with Daily Nation, the flagship publication of NMG, he expressed disappointment in their failure to verify the claims before publication.

“This publication undermines professional journalism and defames my character,” Kiptoo stated.

Media Accountability in Focus

Kiptoo’s response highlights the increasing tension between public officials and the media in Kenya. His demands for accountability align with the provisions of the Media Council Act, which emphasizes accuracy, objectivity, and fairness in journalism.

As the standoff between Kiptoo and NMG unfolds, the incident underscores the critical role of fact-checking and responsible reporting in maintaining public trust and safeguarding reputations. Whether the matter escalates to court remains to be seen, but it has already ignited discussions on the ethics and responsibilities of Kenya’s media.

For now, all eyes are on NMG’s response to the Treasury PS’s demands for retraction and apology.