Four individuals, known supporters of opposition leader Raila Odinga, were granted release on a Sh4,000 cash bail each after pleading not guilty to charges of participating in anti-government protests on Tuesday, May 2.
Cleophas Omuhanga, Dennis Wambuke, Stephen Olando, and Michael Muli Ngatia faced charges at Makadara Magistrate’s Court for their alleged involvement in a riot, in violation of Section 78 (3) and Section 80 of the Penal Code. The group is accused of causing unrest along Outering Road in Kware, Embakasi sub-county, Nairobi, where they were arrested while reportedly preparing to ignite tires after blocking the road.
Prosecutors argue that the four were part of a larger group that obstructed the highway during anti-government demonstrations before being apprehended and taken to Embakasi police station. The tires they allegedly amassed for use in their blockade were seized and retained as evidence.
Upon the arrival of law enforcement, several of their accomplices managed to flee the scene. However, when appearing before Principal Magistrate Eric Mutunga, the four defendants denied any involvement in the riotous acts.
The case is set to be mentioned on June 8, with the trial commencing on July 26. A number of police officers who participated in the arrest of the suspects are slated to testify as witnesses.
Mr. Odinga had previously called for widespread action against the rising cost of living, electoral injustice, an audit of IEBC 2022 General Election servers, and political party matters.