The High Court has ordered the release of Mukurweini Member of Parliament John Philip Gichohi Kaguchia on a cash bail of Ksh 100,000 following his arrest over comments made at a political rally in Nyeri County.
Presiding at Kiambu High Court, Lady Justice Njoki Mwangi certified Kaguchia's application as urgent and granted interim relief, instructing his immediate release upon payment of the bail.
The judge also directed the MP to serve the application papers on the Inspector General of Police and the Director of Public Prosecutions, who have 14 days to respond. Kaguchia may file a supplementary affidavit within 14 days if necessary. The substantive hearing is scheduled for a virtual session on September 16, 2026.
Kaguchia was detained by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) after spending a night at the Royal Media Services offices, where he sought refuge amid what he described as police intimidation. He alleged that roadblocks and police presence near the studios were intended to pressure him.
The MP faces investigation over statements he made at a rally in Kieni, Nyeri, warning Mt Kenya residents against supporting President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election. Speaking in Kikuyu, Kaguchia reportedly said that those backing the President would be tracked to their homes.
Before his arrest, Kaguchia denied receiving any official summons, stating that only social media posts had circulated regarding the probe. He expressed willingness to appear before the National Cohesion and Integration Commission, which oversees hate speech matters.
- The arrest was carried out by DCI officers led by Regional Commander Daniel Kandie.
- Kaguchia was initially taken to the DCI regional offices at Milimani before being moved to the headquarters on Kiambu Road.
