CNN International correspondent Larry Madowo has hinted at the possibility of suing Kibera MP Peter Orero’s driver for defamation after the driver allegedly insulted him during a recent altercation.
Taking to social media on Wednesday, Madowo shared a screenshot of a lawyer offering to represent him in a defamation case against the driver, who reportedly called him “takataka” a Swahili term meaning “trash.” The journalist sought the public’s opinion on whether to pursue legal action, stating, “What do you guys think? Yes or no? I’ll do whatever the public decides.”
Madowo noted that although the driver had apologised to the court when he appeared for a traffic offence on Monday, he never issued a personal apology. “He apologised to the court but not to me,” Madowo added.
The controversy began after Madowo confronted the driver, who had been caught driving in the wrong direction. The driver was later fined Ksh100,000 after admitting the traffic violation.
In a message shared by Madowo, an individual identifying as an advocate advised him to consider filing a defamation suit. The lawyer suggested drafting a demand letter seeking an apology from the driver, noting that defamation proceedings could still be pursued despite the traffic case being settled.
The debate quickly divided Madowo’s online followers. Some argued that a lawsuit would be excessive, while others supported the move, saying it would set a legal precedent against public insults and abuse.
Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Nelson Havi encouraged Madowo to proceed with the case, suggesting he could win up to Ksh20 million in damages.
Meanwhile, Kibera MP Peter Orero has already issued a public apology regarding the incident. However, Madowo’s decision on whether to sue remains pending as he gauges public sentiment on the matter.
