Kenyan-Canadian Tech CEO Sues Ruto’s Allies Over Spying Software Contract
A high-stakes court battle has erupted over allegations linking senior aides of President William Ruto to a controversial plan involving classified software capable of monitoring Kenyan citizens.
The fallout, now at the Milimani High Court, exposes claims of misused public funds, death threats, and contractual breaches tied to an alleged re-election strategy for 2027.
Behind the Scenes of the Alleged Deal
The suit was filed by Mary Wachuka Maina, a Kenyan-Canadian dual citizen and tech entrepreneur, who accuses President Ruto’s team of fraud and breach of contract. Ms. Wachuka, the owner of Jipe Inc., was contracted to develop a high-tech software solution purportedly designed to manage social media content, suppress dissent, and monitor opposition figures.
Court papers reveal that the software was presented as a critical tool to bolster the administration’s public image and manage strategic communications.
According to Ms. Wachuka, it was pitched by Eric Ng’eno, the President’s speechwriter, who reportedly emphasized its necessity for the government’s communication overhaul.
“The software would have the capacity to spy on targets,” read the court filings. It was to manage the President’s and his deputy’s social media pages, delete harmful comments, and even analyze opposition strategies.
Promises and Fallout
The deal was brokered during meetings between Ms. Wachuka, Mr. Ng’eno, and other officials, including billionaire financier Jayesh Saini. Ms. Wachuka claims she was instructed to prioritize the project, with assurances that the funds would be sourced from confidential government accounts.
However, delays and unmet promises led to severe financial repercussions for Ms. Wachuka. Subcontracting a US-based firm, Tesxo, she incurred hefty penalties due to delayed payments. Eventually, she sold her home in the US and paid over KSh 123 million to resolve disputes.
Death Threats and Legal Action
Ms. Wachuka now alleges she has received numerous death threats targeting her and her family. One such email, sent in July, read: “We know what you are planning, and trust me, we will kill you soon… Move on.” These threats have fueled her lawsuit seeking KSh 292 million in damages and court intervention against further harassment.
Broader Implications
The case raises questions about the use of taxpayer funds and the ethical boundaries of state communication tools. Allegations that public money was earmarked for tools with capabilities of mass surveillance and propaganda have sparked concerns about privacy and government accountability.
As the case unfolds, Ms. Wachuka seeks not only restitution for her losses but also an end to the threats against her life. The lawsuit implicates top officials, including the National Treasury PS Chris Kiptoo and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, highlighting the complexity and high stakes of the dispute.
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Kenyan-Canadian Tech CEO Sues Ruto’s Allies Over Spying Software Contract
