A Nairobi court has denied bail to Francis Kamau Karanja, who is charged with cyber harassment over an alleged threatening message sent to Kibera Law Courts Magistrate.
The court ruled that the prosecution had demonstrated compelling reasons to deny him bail, citing concerns that his release could lead to possible interference with witnesses and pose a risk to the complainant.
Karanja’s lawyer, Muriithi Mbaabu, had urged the court to grant his client reasonable and lenient bond terms, arguing that this was his first time being arraigned in court and that he was willing to comply with any conditions imposed. The defence also questioned the circumstances surrounding his arrest, arguing that Karanja had been denied police bail without being informed of the reasons for his arrest.
However, the court found that the prosecution had established compelling reasons to deny him bail, particularly given the potential risk of interference with the complainant and witnesses.
Karanja will remain in remand as the case proceeds, with the Magistrate Irene Thamara directing that the trial be expedited.
