Written by Were Kelly
The High Court in Nairobi has issued interim orders restraining popular Mugithi musician Samuel Muchoki Ndirangu, popularly known as Samidoh, from contacting or interfering with a woman who has accused him of rape.
Justice Lawrence Mugambi directed that the musician, either by himself or through his agents, is barred from harassing, intimidating, or otherwise engaging with the woman, who has been identified in court papers only by the initials M.R.W. to protect her dignity and security.
In her petition, filed through Kaaya Memba & Company Advocates, M.R.W. accuses the musician of sexually assaulting her.
The judge further ordered that her identity be redacted in all legal documents and, where necessary, that court proceedings be conducted in camera (in private).
She has asked the court to compel investigations and ensure the preservation of evidence, claiming to have preserved digital proof of the assault and subsequent communication.
This evidence reportedly includes audio recordings and electronic messages in which Samidoh allegedly insulted and threatened her. In one exchange, he is said to have dismissed her confrontation over the incident by calling her a “professional prostitute.”
The petitioner alleges that between 2021 and 2023, Samidoh engaged in a pattern of manipulative and coercive communication with her, alternating between feigned friendliness and outright intimidation.
She is seeking urgent orders directing the police to formally register her complaint and preserve her evidence. Furthermore, she has asked the court to instruct the Attorney General to initiate mutual legal assistance with U.S. authorities to obtain certified police and prosecutorial records, and for the Witness Protection Agency to assess her risk and offer protection, citing a genuine fear of harassment and intimidation.
In response, Justice Mugambi ordered the police to forensically secure and preserve all relevant documentary, digital, and electronic materials, including the woman’s audio and messaging evidence. He directed that written preservation notices be issued to custodians immediately.
The petition and accompanying application are to be served on the respondents personally or through a nationwide newspaper within seven days. Responses are to be filed within seven days of service, with any rejoinders allowed within the same timeframe.
M.R.W. contends that the state’s failure to act on her complaint has violated her constitutional rights, including her right to dignity, equality, freedom and security of the person, fair administrative action, and access to justice. The orders mark a significant first step in her pursuit of legal recourse.
