Mohamed Abduba Dida, a former Kenyan presidential candidate, is currently serving a 7-year prison sentence in Illinois, United States, after being convicted of stalking and transmitting threats.
Dida, 50, has been held at the Big Muddy Correctional Center since November 18, 2022, following his conviction in McLean County, Illinois.
The former teacher and 2013 and 2017 presidential contender was found guilty of two charges:
stalking and transmitting threats, for which he received a 2-year sentence, and aggravated stalking with a violation of a restraining order, which added an additional 7 years to his sentence.
Dida is scheduled for release on April 3, 2029.
Details surrounding his arrest remain unclear, with no confirmation as to whether Dida had relocated to the U.S. or was visiting when he was charged with these crimes.
While incarcerated, Dida has filed a legal complaint alleging violations of his religious rights as a practicing Muslim.
He claims he has been denied the ability to observe his daily prayers and perform essential rituals, including Friday prayers and the required pre-prayer cleansing.
Dida gained national attention in Kenya during his presidential campaigns, where he ran against prominent politicians Raila Odinga and former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
His imprisonment has sparked debate over his circumstances, as his legal case continues to unfold in the United States.
