The High Court in Eldoret has granted freedom to nine youths who were facing charges for allegedly stealing from Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi’s Timber Xo club during the recent Gen Z protests.
Justice Reuben Nyakundi ruled that the youths, who had been in custody for over two months, could be released on a personal bond of Sh100,000 each without requiring additional security.
“You will sign personal bond agreements and commit to attending all court proceedings until the case is resolved,” stated Justice Nyakundi.
Despite the ongoing lower court proceedings, the High Court has the jurisdiction to review the youths’ bond terms.
Earlier, on Monday, Justice Nyakundi had instructed the accused to submit affidavits to demonstrate their inability to pay the Sh300,000 bond set by the lower court.
Lawyer Kaira Nabasenge informed the court that the youths had filed individual affidavits highlighting their financial struggles, asserting that they came from impoverished backgrounds and could not afford the bond.
The nine youths had been unable to meet the Sh300,000 bond or the alternative cash bail of Sh200,000, which prevented their release.
They petitioned the High Court in Eldoret, seeking freedom as directed by President William Ruto and requesting that the case be dismissed.
Alternatively, they sought a reduction in their bond terms to allow for personal bonds, a request the judge ultimately approved.
The individuals released include Alfred Oloo, Ferdinand Lubisa, Annex Bornway, Martin Kabugi, Gideon Kiplimom Joshua Majimbo, Brian Kimeli, Daniel Luta, and Brian Rotich.
These nine were part of a group of 16 charged with similar offenses, with seven others having successfully secured their bonds and been released.
Nabasenge emphasized that the youths are currently facing charges in the Eldoret Chief Magistrate’s Court related to nationwide demonstrations that occurred on June 25, 2024.
He argued that following President Ruto’s directive for the release of individuals arrested during these protests, it was in the interest of justice to set the applicants free.
The charges against the youths include theft of goods valued at Sh78 million and malicious property damage exceeding Sh80 million, which they have denied.
