On August 21, 2024, residents of Eldoret are making a desperate plea to Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, asking him to intervene and facilitate the release of their relatives who have been in detention for over two months.
The detainees, who include high school students and orphans, are accused of vandalizing Sudi’s Timba XO Club during a wave of protests in June.
Despite Sudi’s earlier statements expressing forgiveness, these individuals remain behind bars due to a hefty Ksh300,000 bond each, which their families cannot afford.
The vandalism at Timba XO Club was part of widespread unrest across the country. The club, a major investment of Sudi’s, suffered significant damage during the protests, leading to losses estimated at Ksh80 million.
This destruction also resulted in the loss of jobs for over 200 employees, who relied on the club for their livelihood. The economic impact on these workers and their families has been severe.
In a bid to secure their release, the families have been visiting the court regularly, but their efforts have so far been in vain.
Residents such as Brian Luta, who spoke to the media, revealed the emotional toll of their repeated court visits.
Protesters vandalise Timba XO club in Eldoret on June 25, 2024 Kenyans.co.ke“We have been coming here every day after work, but we keep getting sent in circles. It’s very disheartening,” he said.
Another resident, Christopher Barno, shared similar frustrations, noting that he and others have been to court four times without resolution. “We are always told to come back later, which makes it very hard for us. We feel like we are getting nowhere,” he said.
Mercy Chebet, whose brother is one of the detained youth, pointed out that Sudi had publicly declared his forgiveness for those involved in the vandalism. However, the reality has not matched his promises. “Sudi went to the media and said he forgave our loved ones. If he truly meant that, we are asking him to take action and help secure their release,” Chebet appealed.
The situation has put immense pressure on the families, who are struggling financially and emotionally. The Ksh300,000 bond per person is a significant burden, especially for those with limited resources.
Many of the detainees come from vulnerable backgrounds, including orphans who have no means to raise the required amount.
In the aftermath of the club's destruction, Sudi had expressed his willingness to forgive those involved. He stated, “It is better to lose the Ksh250 million invested in the club than to harm people.
We lost equipment worth Ksh48 million, but it is okay. I ask those who took the equipment to return it, and we will not pursue further action.” Sudi’s statement suggested a desire to move past the incident and avoid further conflict, but the legal and financial challenges have persisted.
The detained suspects are currently held at Eldoret Maximum Prison, following charges of theft, vandalism, and property destruction. The legal proceedings continue to unfold, but for now, the families remain hopeful that Sudi will act on his earlier promises.
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