A murder suspect accused of killing two patients at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) could be flown to South Africa for further psychiatric evaluation if doctors at Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital fail to agree on his mental condition.
The court made the observation after conflicting medical reports were presented regarding the mental fitness of Kennedy Kalombotole, who is facing murder charges over the deaths of two KNH patients in February and July 2025.
One medical assessment declared Kalombotole unfit to plead, while another concluded that he was mentally fit to stand trial, prompting concerns from the court over the contradictory findings. Kalombotole has never taken plea since his arraignment due to ongoing questions surrounding his mental status.
During proceedings, the court noted that a report from Kenyatta National Hospital indicated the accused required prolonged psychiatric observation.
“He has to stay there for a very long time because the report brought before this court shows your client is sick,” the judge stated.
The prosecution, led by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, requested that Kalombotole undergo a fresh examination before a three-member psychiatric panel at Mathari Hospital to conclusively determine whether he is fit to stand trial.
“We are of the opinion that a three-bench panel of psychiatrists at Mathari should examine him,” the prosecution submitted.
The judge agreed with the proposal, saying the court could not rely on contradictory medical findings without a more comprehensive assessment.
“He needs observation for quite some time for the doctors to properly examine him. I am not a doctor,” the judge said.
The court further observed that if the psychiatrists fail to reach a unanimous finding, the accused could be referred outside the country for further assessment.
“If we do not agree to the three, we will take him to South Africa,” the judge added.
Lawyers representing the victims supported the fresh psychiatric evaluation but urged the court to ensure the matter is concluded without further delays.
The case will be mentioned on July 24 for further directions and to review the findings of the psychiatric panel.
