By Peter John
The Baby Pendo case, one of the most significant matters arising from the 2017 post-election violence, was mentioned before Hon. Justice Joe Omido at the High Court in Kisumu.
The case concerns allegations against four police officers accused of murder, rape and other sexual offences committed in the informal settlements of Nyalenda, Manyatta and Obunga during the unrest that followed the 2017 General Election.
The officers are also charged under the legal doctrine of command responsibility, which holds senior officers accountable for acts and omissions of their juniors.
Originally filed in Nairobi, the criminal proceedings were later transferred to Kisumu, bringing the matter closer to the community where the alleged offences occurred.
During the mention, the court sought confirmation on whether the prosecution had complied with earlier directions requiring them to serve all witness statements and evidentiary materials they intend to rely on during the trial.
The prosecution team appearing in court included senior officials led by Mr. Monda, the Acting Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions. He was joined by Ms. Wangui Gichuhi, Senior Assistant DPP; Mr. Jalson Makori, Senior Assistant DPP; Mr. Patrick Okango, Assistant DPP; Mr. JV Owiti, Prosecution Counsel; and Ms. Mercy Muema, Prosecution Counsel.
Their role was to guide the complex proceedings, which have drawn national attention due to the gravity of the charges and the public interest in justice for Baby Pendo.
After reviewing progress on compliance, the court scheduled the matter for 26th January 2026, when further disclosure will be addressed.
The upcoming session is expected to pave the way for the next phase of the trial, marking another critical step in the long-running pursuit of accountability for the violence that shook Kisumu in 2017.
