John Murithi was on Friday arraigned before the Thika Law Courts, facing charges of assault and causing actual bodily harm to Isaac Mwangi in an incident that occurred on July 9, 2025, in the Landless area of Thika.
According to the charge sheet, Murithi is accused of violently attacking Mwangi, leaving him with visible injuries. Details surrounding the cause of the altercation were not disclosed during the preliminary hearing.
Murithi pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to him in court. The prosecution did not oppose his release on bail, and the court initially set his bond at KSh 30,000 or a cash bail of KSh 15,000.
However, in a passionate plea before the magistrate, Murithi requested a reduction, stating that he was financially constrained and could only afford KSh 10,000. Taking into account his circumstances and lack of prior criminal record, the magistrate allowed the adjustment and ordered his release on KSh 10,000 cash bail.
In a bid to promote restorative justice, the magistrate also advised Murithi to consider engaging the complainant in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to potentially settle the matter out of court. The court emphasized the importance of reconciliation where possible, especially in cases where the involved parties reside within the same community.
