Jacktone Odhiambo was Wednesday charged with the murder of LGBTQ activist and fashion model Edwin Kipruto alias Chiloba but denied bond pending a pre-trial report.
Odhiambo who is the key suspect in the murder of the former University of Eldoret student was arraigned before Justice Reuben Nyakundi at the High Court in Eldoret on Wednesday and denied the charge. The court last week ordered his mental assessment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) before he could be charged with the murder.
During Wednesday’s court session, family members and friends of the late Chiloba jammed the court.
The State Counsel objected to Odhiambo’s release on bond pending a pre-trial report to ascertain whether he qualifies to be released on bond.
“The republic is opposed to the release of the accused on bond. We are yet to compile a pre-bail report to ascertain whether he is fit to be released on bond,” Mike Mogun, State Counsel.
Defense counsel Mathai Maina opposed the application by the State to deny his client’s bond saying it was too early to object to bond release before the defense makes an application.
However, Justice Nyakundi allowed the State to oppose the release, noting that the defense will have time to interrogate the basis of bond denial even after being opposed.
Mr Odhiambo is accused of killing Mr Chiloba between December 31, 2022, and January 3, 2023, at Noble Breeze Apartments in Chebisaas within Moiben Sub County.
