WPP Scangroup breached Kenya’s data law in handling ex-CEO Bharat Thakrar’s data amid a $30M lawsuit alleging racial bias and board interference.
By Charles Wachira
Advertising powerhouse WPP Scangroup has been found to have violated Kenya’s Data Protection Act while handling personal data related to its former CEO, Bharat Thakrar, who is suing the firm for over $30 million (KSh 3.9 billion).
In a lawsuit filed earlier this year, Thakrar accuses the board of WPP PLC—the UK-based parent company—of racial bias, unlawful interference, and conspiring to damage his professional reputation.
⚖️ Allegations of Misconduct and Racial Bias
Thakrar, who founded Scangroup, one of Africa’s largest integrated marketing firms, claims that WPP manipulated control of the board before initiating allegations against him. In 2013, Scangroup became a WPP subsidiary, and in 2021, Thakrar resigned following accusations of impropriety dating back to 2014–2018.
“The board’s conduct was driven by racial bias and neo-colonialist practices,” Thakrar alleges in court filings.
He further claims that a confidential investigation into these allegations was leaked to the media, allegedly to defame him. WPP has denied all allegations and said Thakrar resigned voluntarily.
📄 Data Privacy Breach Confirmed by ODPC
On Tuesday, the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) ruled that WPP Scangroup had breached Kenya’s Data Protection Act. According to the ODPC, the company wrongfully processed Thakrar’s personal data and failed to safeguard confidentiality as required by law.
WPP also reportedly refused to share with the regulator copies of reports it had submitted to the Capital Markets Authority of Kenya, further complicating the probe.
“WPP is in disagreement with the ODPC’s determination and is considering an appeal,” a company spokesperson said.
🧾 Compensation Ordered
The ODPC has ordered compensation to Bharat Thakrar for the unlawful handling of his data. The amount has not been disclosed but adds pressure to an already high-profile legal battle in the advertising and corporate governance space.
🔚 Conclusion
This case marks a major test of Kenya’s data protection regime, especially in disputes involving multinational firms and senior executives. It also puts a spotlight on corporate governance, racial equity, and data ethics within Africa’s expanding digital economy.
