The High Court has issued interim orders restraining Kikuyu musician Samuel Muchoki, popularly known as Samidoh, from contacting or interfering with a woman who has sued him over rape allegations.
Justice Lawrence Mugambi granted the non-contact order pending the hearing of the woman’s petition, directing that she be protected from harassment, intimidation, or interference as the case proceeds.
“…pending the hearing and determination of the instant application, an interim non-contact and non-interference order is hereby issued restraining the Interested Party, whether by himself, his servants, agents or assigns, from contacting, intimidating, harassing or otherwise interfering…” the court ruled.
The woman, identified only by the initials M.R.W. to safeguard her dignity and security, alleges that the popular musician sexually assaulted her and later subjected her to intimidation.
Court Seals Records
Justice Mugambi also ordered that all pleadings and case documents be sealed to protect her identity. Where necessary, proceedings will be conducted in camera.
The court further directed police to forensically secure and preserve all documentary, digital, and electronic materials relevant to the case, including audio and messaging evidence presented by the complainant.
Preservation notices are to be issued immediately to relevant custodians of the evidence.
Petition Details
In her petition, M.R.W. accuses Samidoh of sexual assault and claims to have preserved digital evidence of the incident and subsequent exchanges, including audio recordings and electronic messages.
She alleges that between 2021 and 2023, the musician maintained manipulative and coercive communication with her, alternating between friendliness, insults, and threats.
In one instance, she says he dismissed her confrontation about the assault by calling her a “professional prostitute.”
Through her lawyers, Kaaya Memba & Company Advocates, she is seeking orders compelling the police to investigate her case, preserve her evidence, and for the Attorney General to initiate mutual legal assistance with U.S. authorities to obtain certified police and prosecutorial records.
She has also asked the court to direct the Witness Protection Agency to assess her risk and offer protection, citing fears of harassment and intimidation.
Rights and Justice
The petitioner argues that the state’s inaction has violated her constitutional rights, including dignity, equality, freedom and security of the person, fair administrative action, and access to justice.
The court directed that the petition and accompanying application be served personally on the musician, or via publication in a newspaper with nationwide circulation within seven days. Responses are to be filed within a week of service.
