Joshua Arap Sang, a former International Criminal Court (ICC) suspect and ex-radio presenter has angered many Kenyans with his recent legal threats.
Sang, now the Director of Public Communications in the Office of the Chief of Staff, announced plans to sue an online critic who accused him of participating in the 2007/08 post-election violence (PEV).
Former ICC Suspect Joshua Sang and His Threats on Social Media
On December 21, Sang posted on his X account, warning a critic, Nyamisa Chelagat, that he would take her to court in January for her accusations. He shared a screenshot of his direct message to Chelagat, stating:
“For others to learn a lesson of wrongly accusing people, this one must meet me in court in January so that she can present the evidence she alleges I participated in the 2007/8 PEV.”
Chelagat, unfazed by the threat, responded publicly, mocking Sang and suggesting they “meet at the ICC.”
Kenyans React Strongly
The exchange quickly went viral, with many Kenyans criticizing Sang and siding with Chelagat. Online users revisited the painful memories of the 2007 PEV, accusing Sang of his alleged role in inciting violence.
One X user, George T. Diano, accused Sang of encouraging violence during his time as a radio presenter, writing:
“Aren’t you the same person who told people to chase away Kikuyus in Rift Valley? Some of us know how you influenced the death of innocent women and children.”
Sang denied the allegations, demanding evidence and stating he would willingly present himself to court if proof was provided.
Legal and Professional Backlash
The backlash didn’t stop with the public. Lawyers and human rights activists joined the conversation, criticizing Sang and offering legal support to Chelagat.
Lawyer Ndegwa Njiru tweeted:
“@Nyamisa_Chela, the Mt. Kenya Jurist Association will defend you pro bono against @JoshuaArapSang1 if he follows through with his threats.”
Betty, an X user who worked with ICC investigators, reminded Sang of the documented evidence of PEV atrocities, including victim statements and recordings from his radio show.
Human rights activist Hanifa Adan dared Sang to proceed with his lawsuit, labeling him a “barbaric individual.”
As the day wore on, the criticism intensified, with many Kenyans expressing their frustration over what they saw as idle threats and unresolved issues from Kenya’s dark post-election past.
Conclusion
Sang’s attempt to silence his critic backfired, reigniting public discourse about his alleged role in the 2007/08 post-election violence.
The backlash highlights lingering wounds and a demand for accountability from figures associated with one of Kenya’s darkest periods.