Court sets September 6 deadline in terror case against Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji

Court sets September 6 deadline in terror case against Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji

Prosecution counsel James Machira had requested 14 more days, saying investigations were at an advanced stage.

Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, Inooro journalist James Mbochi and boda boda rider Stanley Mbuthi will learn their fate in an alleged terrorism case on September 6.

This is after Kahawa Law Courts gave the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) and the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) a final chance to conclude investigations.

Prosecution counsel James Machira had requested 14 more days, saying investigations were at an advanced stage.

"The investigations are at an advanced stage. I kindly request that you give us one more chance with a mention in two weeks. I will personally follow the issue," said Machira.

However, the accused, through lawyer Patrick Kung'u, opposed the request and called for dismissal of charges.

Kung'u argued the Prevention of Terrorism Act was being misused to target protesters, journalists, and politicians seen as anti-government.

"This sudden weaponisation of a specialised Act of Parliament to charge protesters or persons perceived to be anti-government has sparked nationwide anger," argued Kung'u.

In his ruling, Magistrate Richard Koech said September 6 is the last mention date for the prosecution’s update and the possible release of confiscated items.

The trio was arrested in Juja in a black Range Rover with no number plates.

They are accused of recruitment and financing violent groups during the July 7 Saba Saba protests.

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