Social media was set ablaze on May 28, 2025, following widespread reports claiming that Joseph Irungu, popularly known as “Jowie,” had been released from prison. Jowie is currently serving time after being convicted for the brutal 2018 murder of businesswoman Monicah Kimani.
The confusion stemmed from a gazette notice published on Friday, May 23, 2025. It listed a “Joseph Irungu Maina” among 57 prisoners pardoned by President William Ruto under the Power of Mercy Act.
A media outlet went ahead and reported the release as fact, triggering emotional reactions online. Some Kenyans expressed shock and outrage, while others praised the move without confirming the details.
However, the truth is very different.Dennis Itumbi, the Head of Creative Economy and Special Projects in the Executive Office of the President, stepped in quickly to clear the air.
He confirmed that the viral claims were false. According to him, the individual listed in the notice—Joseph Irungu Maina—is not the same person as Jowie, whose full name is Joseph Irungu Kuria.
A background check by The Kenya Times also confirmed that inmate number 22, listed in the gazette, does not match Jowie’s prison identification or full name. This significant detail confirms that the convicted Jowie Irungu remains behind bars.
The story serves as a reminder of how easily misinformation can spread, especially when names are similar. It’s also a call for the media and public to double-check facts before jumping to conclusions.
By Newshub