The Kenyan High Court has postponed the plea-taking for 12 police officers accused of killing Baby Samantha Pendo during the 2017 post-election violence. Initially scheduled for Wednesday, the hearing has been rescheduled to January 29, 2025, following the transfer of Justice Lilian Mutende, who was overseeing the case. Justice Margaret Muigai will now preside over the proceedings.
The Tragic Death of Baby Pendo
Baby Samantha Pendo, a six-month-old infant, tragically lost her life on August 12, 2017, during a violent crackdown by police in the Nyalenda slums of Kisumu. According to reports, she suffered fatal head injuries after police stormed her parents’ home in the aftermath of Kenya’s contested elections.
Legal Developments
The case against the officers has faced numerous delays and legal hurdles over the years. Early in the process, the accused attempted to challenge the jurisdiction of Kenyan courts, arguing that the charges, which align with crimes against humanity provisions from the International Criminal Court (ICC), should not be tried domestically. However, these petitions were dismissed, paving the way for their prosecution under Kenyan law.
Key Officers Facing Charges
The senior officers accused of the murder and related offences include:
- Titus Yoma – Former Kisumu County Police Commander.
- Christopher Mutune – Former Nyanza Regional Commander for the General Service Unit (GSU).
- John Masha – Former Kisumu Central Administration Police Service (AP) Commander.
- Linah Kogey – Former Officer in Charge of the Nyalenda Police Post.
- Benjamin Koima and Benjamin Lorema – Inspectors of Police alternately commanding a GSU platoon stationed at Kachok Roundabout.
The officers are accused of failing to control their subordinates and allowing unlawful activities that led to the death of Baby Pendo. If convicted, they face severe penalties, including the possibility of life imprisonment.
Seeking Justice for Baby Pendo
Baby Pendo’s death became a symbol of the human cost of post-election violence in Kenya. Advocacy groups and the public have called for justice to ensure accountability for the tragic events of 2017. The upcoming plea-taking on January 29 is a critical step in the pursuit of justice for her and her family.
Conclusion
The rescheduled plea-taking marks another chapter in the long journey toward justice for Baby Pendo. As the legal process unfolds, the case underscores the urgent need for accountability and reforms to prevent such tragedies in the future. Stay tuned for updates as the trial progresses.
