The judge presiding over the murder case of lawyer Kyalo Mbobu has urged defense lawyers to exercise patience, reminding them that justice takes time. Justice Diana Kavedza, hearing the case at the Kibera High Court, emphasized that trials are not instantaneous and asked lawyers to manage their clients' expectations. She made the remarks after the defense team requested the court to release the suspects on bail or bond, citing the prolonged trial.
The case involves several accused, including Rose Mbithe Mulwa, her daughter Angela Mulwa, her son Chris Mulwa, and police constables Julius Kipkoech Cheruiyot and Kennedy Kipkemei. They are accused of murdering lawyer Kyalo Mbobu on September 9, 2025, and have all denied the charges. Kavedza assured the court that she would treat all accused equally, regardless of their status, and consider the interests of victims and the public.
Justice Kavedza used a metaphor to explain the pace of justice, comparing it to a train journey from Nairobi to Kisumu, saying "justice is not a Concorde to New York Express; justice is the train of 1905 from Nairobi to Kisumu—third class." She urged the lawyers to remain composed and avoid creating unnecessary anxiety for their clients. The judge also reminded the police officers among the accused that their positions would not influence the court's handling of the case.
The defense team had objected to the prosecution's request for more time to file an affidavit opposing the suspects' release on bail. Lawyer Black Omanga argued that the prosecution had already had sufficient time to complete its investigations and questioned the need for additional time while the accused remained in custody. The prosecution objected to Omanga's use of the word "audacity," leading to a brief exchange.
Justice Kavedza intervened, reminding the lawyers to maintain professionalism and decorum in court. She gave them a 10-minute break to compose themselves before continuing the proceedings. The judge reiterated that all parties must address the court with respect and civility. After the break, Kavedza directed the parties to confirm during a virtual session on November 19 whether they had submitted the pre-bail reports.
The confirmation will enable the court to proceed with the bail hearing and deliver its ruling on November 24, 2026. The judge promised to avoid unnecessary delays in delivering her ruling and urged the suspects to remain patient while the court considered their case. Kavedza emphasized that justice is blind and does not consider the status of the accused.
The case will continue on November 19 with a virtual session to confirm the pre-bail reports. The court will then deliver its ruling on the bail application on November 24. Key parties involved in the case include the accused, their lawyers, and the prosecution.
Key points
- Justice Diana Kavedza urges lawyers to exercise patience in the murder trial of Kyalo Mbobu.
- The accused include Rose Mbithe Mulwa, Angela Mulwa, Chris Mulwa, and police constables Julius Kipkoech Cheruiyot and Kennedy Kipkemei.
- The court will deliver its ruling on the bail application on November 24, 2026.
