In a legal development that has captured the nation’s attention, Gabriel Kagombe, the embattled member of parliament representing Gatundu South constituency, has secured a temporary reprieve from custody. Kagombe, who found himself embroiled in a high-profile case involving the alleged murder of a boda boda rider in Thika, was granted bail by the Machakos High Court on Thursday.
The ruling came after a series of intense legal proceedings, during which Kagombe’s legal team mounted a vigorous defense, asserting that their client posed no flight risk due to his prominent roles as the chair of two influential parliamentary committees. They further contended that his release would not impede the ongoing investigations into the tragic incident.
In a move that has sparked widespread public discourse, the court imposed stringent conditions for Kagombe’s release. He was ordered to pay a cash bail of one million Kenyan shillings or, alternatively, secure a bond of two million Kenyan shillings accompanied by a surety of an equivalent sum.
The decision to grant bail followed a court-ordered psychological evaluation, conducted to ascertain Kagombe’s mental fitness to stand trial. The assessment, overseen by High Court Judge Francis Olel, was a critical step in the legal proceedings, ensuring due process and fairness.
While the court granted Kagombe the privilege of retaining his travel documents, a request to transfer the case to alternative jurisdictions, such as Milimani, Thika, or Kiambu, was swiftly rejected. This decision underscores the court’s commitment to maintaining impartiality and adhering to established legal protocols.
The alleged incident that sparked the legal turmoil unfolded during a ceremony to launch the construction of a market in Thika. Tensions escalated between supporters of two rival political factions, culminating in a violent altercation that tragically claimed one life and left several others nursing multiple injuries.
As Kagombe navigates the intricate legal landscape, his next court appearance is scheduled for the 17th of the following month, when the case will be mentioned before the same Machakos court.