Mukurweini Member of Parliament John Philip Gichohi Kaguchia was granted KSh 250,000 cash bail by a Milimani court on Tuesday, August 4, after his arrest on charges of offensive conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace.
Kaguchia was detained at Kamukunji Police Station before his court appearance. The charges stem from comments he allegedly made in Kikuyu at Naromoru Shopping Centre, Kieni East, Nyeri county, on August 1. Prosecutors claim he warned residents associated with an individual known as "Kasongo" that they would face social exclusion, including being barred from communal support during bereavements and dowry ceremonies.
During the hearing, Kaguchia did not enter a plea as his legal team challenged the validity of the charge sheet, citing insufficient details. His lawyers also raised concerns regarding his access to legal counsel and alleged non-compliance with prior High Court directives.
While the prosecution opposed some objections, they did not contest the bail application. Senior Principal Magistrate Teresiah Nyangena consequently allowed Kaguchia's release on bail.
The arrest sparked criticism from leaders affiliated with the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Gatundu South MP Gabriel Kagombe warned that unresolved issues surrounding the arrest could prompt some legislators to defect to the opposition. Kagombe defended Kaguchia's role as an elected representative and cautioned that the incident might damage President William Ruto's administration, accusing unnamed parties of misrepresenting the president's agenda.
