CNN International Correspondent Larry Madowo is seeking advice from the public on whether he should sue George Oduor, the driver of Kibera MP Peter Orero, after a traffic altercation on Thursday last week.
Taking to social media on Wednesday, Madowo shared a screenshot of a lawyer promising to represent him against the MP's driver in a defamation case for calling him "takataka".
As such, he asked for the public's opinion on whether the move was a sound one, promising to do whatever they decide.
"What do you guys think? Yes or no? I’ll do whatever the public decides," Madowo quipped.
Taking into consideration that the driver had apologised to the court when he appeared to face charges on Monday, Madowo added, "He apologised to the court but not to me."
Madowo's dilemma stemmed from a message he received from an individual identifying themself as an advocate, offering to help draft a demand letter seeking an apology from the driver.
The individual noted that although he had already been charged and fined Ksh100,000 for the traffic violation, he could still be sued for defamation.
"Good morning, Larry. What you did was commendable. Apart from the traffic offence that was preferred against the driver, you can also pursue him for defamation by calling you Takataka," the message read in part.
"Please reach out for the purposes of writing a demand letter to have him render an apology. I am an advocate."
The journalist's comment section quickly divided, with some backing the action and others against it. To some, the lawsuit would be petty, while to others, it would set a precedent for future interactions with lawmakers.
One of the most notable people who commented on the matter was former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Nelson Havi, who advised Madowo to go for it and maybe pocket Ksh20 million at the end of it.
"Larry Madowo, give the young lawyer the brief. Do not listen to naysayers. You got a good case. Kshs 20,000,000.00 pap!" he stated.
Following the recorded altercation in which the driver was recorded driving in the wrong direction, he was fined Ksh100,000, after apologising to the court.
The MP also apologised during a public appearance on Monday.
