A pastor from Gatundu South in Kiambu County was released on a Sh2 million bond with a similar surety after pleading not guilty to murder charges.
Patrick Kagunda Karanja, appeared before High Court Judge Justice Florence Muchemi and was accused of murdering Francis Gichini on February 3, 2025, in the Gatundu South Sub-county.
He denied the charges.
His defense team led by Ndegwa Njiru, successfully argued for favorable bond terms, claiming that Kagunda had been detained without charge for an extended period of time.
The defense argued as a pastor with a wife and child, the accused is not a flight risk and should be granted his constitutional right.
The defense said Kagunda was presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The prosecution, led by Principal Prosecution Counsel Esther Torosi, and the victim’s legal representatives, including Karuku Wachira, were opposed to the bond application.
They expressed concern that if Kagunda is released, he may interfere with witnesses and evidence.
They also raised concerns about his safety, citing public hostility in his hometown of Ituuru village, which could endanger his life if he is released.
Despite the prosecution’s objections, Justice Muchemi granted the bond application, releasing Kagunda on a Sh2 million bond and matching surety.
She further ordered that he remain at Nairobi Remand until the bond is processed.
The case is scheduled for mention on March 25, 2025.
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