The High Court has blocked the arrest or detention of blogger Ndiang’ui Kinyagia pending the hearing of a case concerning his recent disappearance. The blogger, who had been missing for several days under unclear circumstances, appeared in court Thursday morning, ending a period of intense anxiety for his family, legal team, and concerned members of the public.
Kinyagia, described by his lawyers as visibly “sick and traumatized,” was deemed unfit to participate meaningfully in the day’s proceedings. His mother, Lilian Wanjiku, was present in court as legal counsel sought direction on the next steps.
Speaking before Justice Chacha Mwita, lawyer Kibe Mungai, representing the family, said he learned of Kinyagia’s whereabouts from fellow advocate Wahome Thuku on Tuesday evening. A phone call between Wanjiku and her son the night before confirmed he was alive but in distress.
“Your Honour, we have him. We were looking for him, and he is finally here. But he’s not in good condition,” said Mungai, requesting that the matter be deferred to allow time for a private debrief with Kinyagia.
The legal team expressed concern over the risk of Kinyagia being arrested, prompting a plea for protective court orders. The court granted the request, restraining any arrest or detention and allowing the family to take Kinyagia for medical treatment.
Justice Mwita affirmed the court’s priority was Kinyagia’s safety and welfare. “My intention was to have him presented to Kenyans. He is here, and that goal is fulfilled. It is fair to allow time for the family and legal counsel to engage with him,” the judge ruled.
However, the Attorney General’s office, through lawyer Emmanuel Bitta, voiced dissatisfaction, arguing that they had not been accorded a fair hearing. The court, nonetheless, scheduled the next hearing for July 18, by which time Kinyagia is expected to have received medical attention and be in a better position to address the court.
The mystery surrounding Kinyagia’s disappearance remains unresolved.
Written By Rodney Mbua
