NAIROBI, Kenya- A United States citizen facing charges of being in Kenya illegally sparked laughter in court after complaining about the food he was being served in custody, telling a magistrate he could not survive on ugali and cabbage alone.
The American national, identified in court proceedings as Carol William Lewis, appeared before a Nairobi court where he is facing immigration-related charges after allegedly remaining in the country unlawfully.
During the proceedings, Lewis reportedly shifted attention from the legal case and raised concerns about the meals being provided while in custody.
According to reports from court, the American complained that he was being served ugali and cabbage and pleaded with the court to intervene so he could access what he described as “good food.”
His remarks reportedly amused some people present in court as he questioned whether he would continue eating the staple meal if he remained behind bars.
The court, however, remained focused on the immigration matter before it, with the case proceeding in line with legal processes governing foreign nationals accused of violating Kenya’s immigration laws.
Kenyan prisons and holding facilities commonly provide basic meals that often include ugali, beans, vegetables, and porridge, depending on the institution and available resources.
The unusual complaint has since attracted attention online, with some Kenyans jokingly defending ugali and cabbage as a staple meal enjoyed by millions across the country.
The case comes amid ongoing efforts by immigration authorities to crack down on foreigners found residing or working in Kenya without the required documentation.
Authorities have in recent years intensified inspections and enforcement operations targeting immigration violations, with offenders facing fines, deportation, or other penalties as provided under Kenyan law.
Lewis remains at the centre of the immigration case as the court determines the next course of action regarding his stay in the country.
