President William Ruto’s daughter, Charlene Ruto, has formally withdrawn a criminal case against author Webster Ochora Elijah after the two reached a reconciliation agreement. Ochora had been accused of impersonating Charlene by authoring a book under her name.
The case, registered as MCCR No. 314 of 2025, was withdrawn on Monday before Milimani Magistrate Robinson Ondieki. The withdrawal was based on Section 176 of the Criminal Procedure Code and Article 159(2)(c) of the Constitution, which encourage alternative dispute resolution.
According to court documents, Ochora offered a written apology, which Charlene accepted, paving the way for an amicable settlement.
Settlement Conditions
As part of the agreement, Ochora is strictly barred from publishing, distributing, or disseminating the disputed book or any related material. He is also restricted from transferring rights to the book to third parties for purposes such as publication, production, or adaptation.
“The accused shall not publish, distribute, disseminate, or cause to be published in any form or medium the book or any material referring to the events forming the subject matter of this case,” the agreement reads in part.
The deal makes it clear that if Ochora violates any of these conditions, Charlene Ruto has the right to pursue civil remedies. The withdrawal of the case will not serve as a defence against future legal action.
Apology Accepted
In addition to the restrictions, Ochora issued an official apology, which Charlene accepted. This acceptance was central to the settlement and marked the resolution of the matter outside prolonged court battles.
The case has now been marked as withdrawn, but the court will mention it again on October 6, 2025, for further directions.
This settlement brings to an end a dispute that had attracted public attention due to its connection with the President’s daughter, while also underscoring the growing role of alternative dispute resolution in Kenya’s justice system.
