Salim Swaleh makes appeal to Mudavadi

Former Director of Press Services in the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary for Musalia Mudavadi, Salim Swaleh, is now seeking forgiveness.

In an emotional video message viewed by the Star, Swaleh expressed deep regret for betraying a long-standing trust, for which he is truly sorry.

"Your Excellency, you have been like a father to me for as long as I’ve known you. We built an unparalleled trust between us, and for the past year and a half, I have served you and your office with unwavering dedication. I broke that trust, and I am deeply sorry. I am genuinely remorseful," Swaleh said in the video.

He revealed that the past few months have been incredibly challenging, to the point where he couldn't leave his house due to the negative publicity he received.

He admitted that the situation pushed him to the brink, even contemplating taking his own life.

“The last month has been extremely difficult. I’ve been unable to step outside because of the intense public scrutiny. The things people have said about me have thrown me into uncharted territory. Dark thoughts have crossed my mind, and at times, I’ve considered ending my life,” he confessed.

Swaleh, a former television news anchor, added that he lost everything suddenly, and now faces overwhelming financial challenges, with bills piling up and no income to cover them.

"My salary was abruptly stopped, and I have loans to repay. It’s the end of the month, and the bills are mounting. Please, find it in your heart to forgive me," he pleaded.

He also asked for assistance in putting an end to his ordeal so that he can rebuild his life. "With the damaging publicity I received, it’s nearly impossible to find another job. Please have mercy on me," he implored.

According to the charge sheet, Swaleh, along with four others, allegedly conspired to defraud Sh5.8 million from a consultancy company.

The offense reportedly occurred between June 4, 2014, and June 22, 2014, at the Prime Cabinet Secretary’s office, specifically within the Director of Press Services' office in Nairobi County.

Swaleh was expected to enter a plea for the Sh5.8 million fraud charges. The case was brought up to determine whether the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) would review the charges or proceed as planned.

However, the court was informed that the application for review had been denied, meaning Swaleh and his co-accused would have to face the charges.