By Were Kelly
Police Constable Klinzy Masinde Barasa, who is accused of murdering Boniface Kariuki Mwangi, a street vendor allegedly shot dead during anti-government protests in Nairobi, appeared before the Milimani High court for plea taking.
It is alleged that the constable fatally shot Mwangi at close range on June 17, 2025, outside Imenti House during demonstrations.
The court confirmed that Barasa had undergone a mental assessment, and a report by government psychiatrist Dr. Priscila Makau dated July 21 found him mentally fit to plead and stand trial.
Barasa, who appeared before Justice Kanyi Kimondo at the Milimani Law Courts on Monday, pleaded not guilty to the murder charge.
Following the plea, Justice Kimondo issued strict timelines for the bail process:
- Barasa’s defence team, led by Counsel Felix Keeton, must file a formal bail application within seven days.
- The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the victim’s family counsel Fred Ngatia, and the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) must respond within seven days of being served.
Given the upcoming judicial recess, the court directed that the bail hearing be conducted virtually on August 19. Barasa will remain in custody until then.
During Monday’s session, Keeton indicated the defence would seek Barasa’s release on bond, while the prosecution strongly opposed the move, citing the gravity of the offence and high public interest surrounding the case.
Counsel Fred Ngatia, representing the deceased’s family, echoed the prosecution’s sentiments, urging the court to deny bail.
“The family strongly objects to the release of the accused on bond,” said Ngatia. “We urge this court to consider the gravity of the matter and the need for justice to be seen to be done.”
Barasa is charged with murder contrary to Section 203 as read with Section 204 of the Penal Code.
The High Court has set August 19, 2025, as the date for a virtual bail or bond hearing for Police Constable Klinzy Masinde Barasa
