Salim Swaleh's Tearful Apology to Mudavadi: 'I Lost Everything in a Blink of an Eye

Salim Swaleh, the former Director of Press in the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary (OPCS), has publicly apologized to his former boss, Musalia Mudavadi, in an emotional video that has gone viral on social media. Swaleh acknowledged that he had damaged their relationship and expressed deep regret for his actions.

The ex-NTV news anchor explained that he made the video after unsuccessfully trying to reach Mudavadi for several weeks. "Your Excellency, I hope this message finds you in good health. I've been attempting to contact you over the last few weeks without success. I've sent various people to reach out, but I've received no response. You have been like a father figure to me for a long time. We shared a unique bond of trust. Over the last year and a half, I have served you with dedication. However, I broke that trust, and for that, I am truly sorry," Swaleh said, visibly tearful.

Swaleh further revealed that the past month had been extremely difficult for him, as he struggled to find new employment due to the negative publicity surrounding his name. He admitted that he had lost everything and had even contemplated suicide. "The last month has been incredibly tough. I've been too ashamed to leave my house because of the bad press I've received. Dark thoughts have crossed my mind, including ending my own life. I lost everything in the blink of an eye," he confessed.

Swaleh also claimed that both police and lawyers had been exploiting him during his court appearances, urging Mudavadi to help end his suffering. "Every time I go to court, I'm harassed by lawyers and police who think I'm wealthy. They're constantly extorting me. Please, find it in your heart to forgive me, and please help put an end to this," he pleaded.

Swaleh was one of six individuals arrested on Saturday, June 22, in connection with an alleged fraud at the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary. According to a statement from the office, the suspects were apprehended following surveillance that revealed their involvement in fraudulent activities. It was reported that fake door switch-nametags were found in Swaleh's office.

"The surveillance also identified their accomplices, including government officials who facilitated their fraudulent activities. Among those arrested was Salim Swaleh, Director of the OPCS Press Service, in whose office the fraudsters were found with fake door switch-nametags," the statement read.

Swaleh and his co-accused were later released on bail after being charged with conspiring to defraud a consultancy firm of Ksh 5.8 million. Although the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Ingonga, initially approved the fraud charges, he later called for a review of the case. As a result, the suspects did not enter pleas, and the court has given the DPP until September 12 to complete the review.