NAIROBI, Kenya- Mukurwe-Ini Member of Parliament John Kaguchia has been released on a cash bail of Sh250,000 following his arraignment at the Milimani Law Courts over allegations linked to his recent public remarks.
The legislator, who was arrested on Monday by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), appeared before court on Tuesday as prosecutors pursued charges arising from comments he made during a political rally in Nyeri County.
Kaguchia’s release comes a day after the High Court had ordered that he be freed from police custody upon payment of a KSh100,000 police cash bail pending court proceedings, amid a legal battle over his detention.
Opposition leaders had accused police of delaying his release despite the court order, allegations that intensified political criticism of the government’s handling of the case.
At Tuesday’s arraignment before the Milimani Law Courts, the court granted the MP cash bail of KSh250,000, allowing him to leave custody as the criminal case proceeds.
Kaguchia’s arrest sparked strong reactions from opposition leaders, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who accused the government of selectively applying the law against political opponents.
Government supporters, however, have defended the investigations, insisting that alleged hate speech and incitement should be addressed through the legal process.
The case stems from remarks Kaguchia made during a political rally over the weekend, which investigators are examining for possible incitement.
The MP has maintained that his comments were taken out of context and has denied any wrongdoing.
