Court Defers Bail Ruling in Klinzy Baraza murder Case, grants 14 Days for Responses

Constable Klinzy Barasa during his plea taking at the Milimani high court/Photo/X

The High Court on Tuesday deferred its ruling on whether to release Klinzy Masinde Baraza on bail, directing all parties in the matter to file responses within 14 days.

The bail application, which was scheduled for ruling on September 16 before Milimani high court was put on hold after the court noted that a notice of motion filed on August 6, 2025, seeking equal participation of the victims’ counsel, had not been fully addressed.

The application, made earlier made by Susan Njeri the mother of the deceased who sought to allow her legal team to actively participate in the proceedings alongside the prosecution and defence.

Appearing before Justice Margaret Muigai, advocates Erick Muriuki held brief for lead counsel Antony Ngatia on behalf of the victims. They insisted that the August 6 application had been duly served upon the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and other parties.

However, both the ODPP and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) told the court they had not been served.

Counsel for the accused, Vincent Yegon, opposed the victims’ application, arguing that his client had not been properly served and that the defence remained opposed to the request.

Yegon further urged the court to release Baraza on reasonable bail terms, citing his constitutional right.

“We oppose the application, and we also request that our client be released on reasonable bail, as guaranteed under the Constitution.” yegon said.

The ODPP, through its representative, also confirmed that it had not yet received the victims’ preliminary objection to the bail application. The objection, filed in court on Tuesday, challenges the legality of Baraza’s bid for bail.

“We have not been served with the application, and cannot comment fully until service is properly effected.” he said.

Justice Margaret Muigai directed that the preliminary objection be served upon all parties including the ODPP, IPOA, and the defence within 14 days, after which responses will be filed. The court will then set a date for the ruling on the bail application.

“Let us ensure compliance with service first. Once all parties are properly served, they may respond.”justice ruled.

Baraza is facing trial for the shooting and murder of a mask vendor Boniface Kariuki Mwangi during the June 2025 protests along Moi Avenue.

Baraza remains in custody pending the outcome of the bail hearing on October 6,2025.