Veteran Radio Presenter Fred Machoka says Alai’s HIV Allegation Damaged his Brand

Veteran radio presenter Fred Obachi Machoka on Wednesday told the High Court that remarks published by Robert Alai on Facebook falsely portrayed him as HIV positive, caused serious damage to his reputation, personal life and business interests.

Testifying in a defamation suit, Machoka adopted his witness statement and recounted his long career in public service and broadcasting. He told the court he joined the police in 1972 before moving to the then Voice of Kenya, now KBC. He currently works on Radio Citizen and Citizen TV.

Explaining why he sued Alai, Machoka testified, “I felt defamed when he went on his Facebook account alleging that I am HIV positive and taking ARVs which are making me irrational in thinking.”

He said the publication injured his reputation as a respected media personality with nearly 50 years in broadcasting. He also noted that his name is linked to several business ventures, including being and emcee and hosting international events, marketing for brands and managing his Ranch. 

“When you go out there alleging that I am HIV positive and on ARVs that are making me irrational in thinking, you are destroying me. I’m a family man, a father and a grandfather, I’m many things in one.”

During cross-examination, Robert Alai was questioned over his sworn witness statement denying ownership or operation of Facebook accounts, with the court presented with past cases and records referencing his social media activity.