Popular Nairobi car dealer Joseph Kairu Wambui, widely known as Khalif Kairo, has been granted 30 days to pursue an out-of-court settlement in fraud-related charges currently pending before the Milimani Law Courts.
The reprieve was issued by Chief Magistrate Lucas Onyina on Wednesday, following an application by Kairo’s legal team seeking time to finalize a settlement agreement with the complainant.
During the court session, Kairo’s defence disclosed that a partial payment had already been made and requested that his cash bail be redirected toward settling the remaining balance. The defence also informed the court that they had written to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) seeking a formal review of the charges.
“We pray that you allow the DPP time to consider our request. I do confirm receipt of partial payment to the complainant, and we request the court to allow the parties to pursue settlement,” the defence counsel submitted.
The prosecution raised no objection to the proposal, with the prosecutor stating, “If the accused can commit to making payments, then we can agree.”
In addition, the prosecution acknowledged Kairo’s request to travel to Japan and confirmed that supporting documents had been submitted. They noted that the accused had previously complied with return conditions and expressed no objection to the travel.
Magistrate Onyina granted the application, ordered the release of Kairo’s passport, and advised that should a full settlement be reached, the cash bail could be redirected to the complainant upon withdrawal of the charges.
The case will be mentioned on August 25 to confirm whether a mutual agreement has been finalized and whether the DPP has responded to the request for charge review.
Kairo was charged earlier this year with obtaining money by false pretences after allegedly receiving funds from clients without delivering the promised vehicles—a case that has drawn attention due to his public profile and growing online following.
Written by Were Kelly
