A pastor from Gatundu South, Kiambu County, has been released on a Ksh.2 million bond with an equivalent surety after pleading not guilty to murder charges.
Patrick Kagunda Karanja, who appeared before High Court Judge Florence Muchemi, is accused of fatally attacking Francis Gichini on February 3, 2025, in Gatundu South Sub-county.
Kagunda’s defense team, led by lawyer Ndegwa Njiru, successfully argued for his release on bond, citing prolonged detention without formal charges. They assured the court that Kagunda, being a pastor with a wife and child, posed no flight risk and deserved his constitutional rights.
Njiru further emphasized that the accused remains innocent until proven guilty and should not be denied bond.
However, the prosecution, led by Principal Prosecution Counsel Esther Torosi, strongly opposed the bond application. The victim’s legal representatives, including lawyer Karuku Wachira, also objected, expressing concerns that Kagunda’s release could compromise witness testimonies and evidence.
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They raised security concerns, stating that public hostility in his home village of Ituuru could put his life in danger if he were released.
Despite the prosecution's objections, Justice Muchemi ruled in favor of the defense, granting Kagunda a Ksh.2 million bond with a matching surety. She also directed that he remain in Nairobi Remand until the bond process is completed.
The case is set for mention on March 25, 2025.
