Nyamira based journalist Evan Nyakundi got reprieve on Tuesday after the court set him free after spending weeks in prison for disobeying court order issued to him on not publishing a particular story.
Justice Winfridah Okwany in her ruling allowed the application by Lawyer Danstan Omari seeking for the release of Nyakundi from prison.
“This court takes cognizant of the fact that contempt of court is a serious offense against the authority of the court itself and should not be condoned in any way,” the judge noted.
However, the court said it noted that the convict has been in custody for weeks and that he is an employee of TSC and his job is on the line should he continue to be in custody.
Judge Okwany allowed the application by Omari on condition that he pays a fine of Sh 30,000.
The case will be Mentioned on October 6
Meanwhile, The Gusii Scribes Welfare/Kisii Press Club has expressed deep gratitude following the release of journalist Nyakundi.
In a statement, they said Nyakundi’s freedom came after a successful legal battle spearheaded by a team of advocates led by Omari, whose tireless petitioning and dedication secured a review and reversal of the verdict.
They also appreciated the Committee for Protection of Journalists (CPJ), the Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ), fellow members of the Kisii Press Club, friends, and well-wishers who stood firmly with Nyakundi and his family during the ordeal.
The Gusii Scribes Welfare announced that they will provide psychosocial support to Nyakundi as he reintegrates, while also initiating dialogue between him and the plaintiff in hopes of achieving reconciliation and forgiveness.
“As Gusii Scribes Welfare/Kisii Press Club, we reaffirm our belief in press freedom, responsibility in journalism, and the power of dialogue in resolving disputes,” said Nyang’au Araka, Chairman and Editor of the club
