Diani Baobab Beach Resort
The Milimani High Court, presided over by Judge Jack Murima, has adjourned a high-profile case involving Diani-based Baobab Beach Resort until Friday. The resort has come under fire for alleged bias and discrimination practices, prompting public interest and intense scrutiny. The case was initially postponed to allow further deliberation over accusations brought by the plaintiff, Mr. Duncan Muriuki.
Plaintiff Alleges Defamation and Bias Against Baobab Beach Resort
Mr. Duncan Muriuki has accused Baobab Beach Resort of defaming him on social media, particularly through posts on its Facebook page. In his suit, Muriuki claims these posts are harmful to his reputation and has requested the court to order the resort to remove the alleged defamatory content. According to Muriuki, the posts paint a damaging picture of his character and professional conduct.
Court Denies Request to Block Media Coverage
During the previous hearing, Justice Murima emphasized that the case is of substantial public interest and therefore should remain open to media coverage. The court denied Baobab Beach Resort’s application to restrict media reporting, calling the motion “ill-intended” and lacking sufficient justification. Justice Murima noted that public awareness and transparency are crucial given the nature of the allegations.
Read: Eric Agolla Lugalia: From Sky High to Legal Lows – Navigating Scandal and Fraud
Muriuki’s Legal Representation Highlights Defamation Claims
Lawyer Wilfred Nderitu, representing Mr. Muriuki, stated that the resort’s actions extend beyond defamation. Muriuki, who serves as the Managing Director of Destination Africa DMC Limited, asserts that he has been wrongfully denied access to Baobab Beach Resort, a venue he frequently visited as part of his business operations. The plaintiff contends that his exclusion from the resort interferes with his work, where he regularly escorts guests to the premises.
Previous Court Orders Call for Removal of Alleged Defamatory Posts
In a prior ruling, High Court Judge Mumbi Ngugi instructed Baobab Beach Resort to delete any offensive content about Mr. Muriuki from its Facebook page. The ruling also prohibited the resort from publishing any further posts related to Muriuki until the case was resolved, underscoring the gravity of the defamation claims brought by the plaintiff.
Allegations of Discrimination Spark Broader Criticism of Resort Policies
Beyond the defamation claims, Baobab Beach Resort faces allegations of discriminatory practices. Muriuki’s court papers contend that the resort has routinely locked out local visitors and tour operators from its premises, including those responsible for guest transport. The accusation has stirred a heated public debate, particularly regarding issues of racial and regional discrimination.
Muriuki Speaks Out Against Alleged Racial Bias
In a statement submitted to the court, Muriuki voiced his disappointment over alleged discriminatory practices on the Kenyan coast. “For the avoidance of doubt, I cannot believe that in this day and age, some beach hotels on the Kenyan coast will not allow locals to enjoy the services that they advertise,” he stated. “It is disheartening that such practices based on color or nationality still exist in Kenya’s tourism sector.”
Baobab Beach Resort Apologizes Following Incident
The resort previously issued an apology letter to Mr. Muriuki following an unpleasant experience he encountered at its main gate. However, Muriuki maintains that the apology falls short, given the scale of his complaints, and continues to seek redress through the court.
Public Anticipation Builds as Case Resumes on Friday
The postponement of the case to Friday has left Kenyans eager to see whether the court will side with Mr. Muriuki on the defamation and discrimination allegations. This case has underscored persistent issues within the hospitality industry and has become a focal point for discussions on legal accountability and anti-discriminatory practices in Kenya.
This court battle has highlighted critical questions about inclusivity and fairness within Kenya’s tourism sector, and the outcome may establish new precedents on discrimination and defamation in hospitality management. The case will resume on Friday, with the public closely watching the proceedings.
