Amid rising cases of abductions targeting individuals critical of President William Ruto’s administration, Malema TV chairman Gilbert Kiptalam has gone into hiding after reportedly receiving death threats from Kapsaret MP Oscar Sudi.
Kiptalam’s TV station has gained attention for its outspoken criticism of President Ruto’s leadership.
On Friday, the legislator allegedly called Kiptalam, issuing a stern warning over the station’s content.
According to Kiptalam, the MP’s message was clear: cease criticizing the government or face dire consequences.
In an audio clip purportedly of the call, Sudi is alleged to have said, “Malema, wacha hizi vitu unapost, ninakuambia kama rafiki! Tumeamua kuenda head-on na hii watu. Malema, sitaki familia yako pia walie.” (Malema, stop these posts, I’m telling you as a friend! We have decided to go head-on with these people. Malema, I don’t want your family to cry too.)
In response, Kiptalam, who has since sought refuge, stated that Malema TV operates as a legitimate, registered business with a team of professional employees.
He emphasized that the station, which began operations in 2019, has never violated any laws.
“If anything happens to me after this threatening call, Oscar Sudi should be held responsible,” Kiptalam said, adding that he has already reported the matter to the authorities.
Kiptalam expressed fear for his life, citing the alarming trend of abductions targeting government critics.
“What have I done to Oscar Sudi? Is it because my TV is the biggest critic of this government?” he questioned.
He urged the lawmaker to address grievances through legal channels rather than resorting to threats.
