Mombasa businessman Mohamed Salim Tenge who was arrested on May 19, 2020, for distributing food allegedly sent by Deputy President William Ruto was released after paying a Ksh3,000 fine.
Addressing a press conference on June 12, the tycoon accompanied by former Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale stated that he had been arraigned in court and paid the amount stated.
Tenge condemned the police for his arrest arguing that other leaders were holding political meetings without any repercussions.
"Kenyans are suffering and we should use our resources to help them in this Covid-19 period. We've seen other leaders in Kajiado congregate but they are not being arrested," the tycoon lamented.
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Tenge added that together with his team, he would continue to assist the needy people in Mombasa where possible.
On May 19, six armed police officers raided the home of the Mombasa-based politician and apprehended him.
Nyali MP Mohamed Ali revealed that the politician was apprehended for failing to adhere to social distancing rules while handing out food donations that were provided by Deputy President William Ruto.
"His Crime was distributing food sent by DP William Ruto to Kikambala residents. Mohamed Salim aka Tenge has now been granted a cash bail of Ksh20,000. God willing, tomorrow he will be at Shanzu Law Courts. Petty Politics," the vocal legislator tweeted.
Salim while distributing the goods stated, "Ruto sent me to help the underprivileged in Kilifi during this holy month of Ramadhan. I want to thank you for remembering us during this time of need. We are going to distribute the contents of 3 trucks here in Kilifi and the three other trucks will serve the people of Old Town in Mombasa."
Khalwale on his part had been summoned by the DCI after he was accused of incitement and holding a meeting against Covid-19 measures.
According to regulations introduced to help curb the spread of Covid-19, individuals who breach the rules on mass gathering and self-isolation face a fine of up to Sh20,000 or a jail term of up to six months or both in line with the public health rules 2020.
