Gatundu man arrested for threatening President Ruto in viral TikTok video

Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested Peter Maingi Kimani, also known as Menelik Kimani, over a viral TikTok video in which he issued a direct challenge to President William Ruto and called for a battlefield confrontation.

In a statement released on Thursday, the DCI said the suspect was traced to a hideout in the Gachage area of Kiganjo, Gatundu South Sub-County, where he had allegedly gone into hiding after posting the clip earlier this week.

He is currently undergoing processing pending arraignment.

In the video, which has since circulated widely online, Kimani addressed the President directly, saying: “President William Ruto; ignore me at your own risk. I ask for a challenge between me and your government.”

He went on to reject democratic leadership, declaring: “A real king doesn’t come through the ballot box, a real king comes from the battlefield. Democracy has raised weak kings who come into power through lies and fooling the poor.”

At one point, he claimed royal and biblical lineage, stating: “Let me introduce myself; I am Menelik, son of King Solomon, son of King David. We are the royal blood, chosen and anointed by the creator of heaven and earth. We do not beg for power; we take it by force.”

Kimani further gave what he described as a seven-day ultimatum to the President, saying: “For 7 days, from today, prepare your army for war… If I lose, let every soldier in the field shoot me to death… But if I win, I shall be king.” He added that if no response was forthcoming, he would “visit State House” and decide the President’s fate.

The DCI said the remarks amounted to a threatening message and warned against the misuse of social media platforms to incite violence or threaten public order.

“While freedom of expression is guaranteed in the Constitution, its enjoyment should not be used as a tool to promote or justify the violation of the rights of others,” the State agency said.

“The Directorate further reiterates that no effort will be spared in addressing any irresponsible use of social media, especially where there is a threat to peace and security.”