Collins Kibet, the grandson of former President Daniel Arap Moi, has been released from jail after a Nakuru court granted him a KSh 1 million bond. Kibet had been jailed earlier this month for allegedly failing to comply with court orders regarding a child neglect case. His release, pending the next hearing, has sparked public interest, with many Kenyans sharing mixed reactions on social media.
Kibet was initially remanded at Nakuru GK Prisons following a court ruling on September 1 that found him in contempt of orders related to the care and support of his children. His lawyers, Andrew Muge and George Sakimpa of Muge Law Advocates, appealed the ruling, successfully petitioning the court to suspend his civil jail term.
According to Nakuru Principal Magistrate Kipkurui Kibelion, the decision to release Kibet was in the best interest of the children involved, giving both parties time to resolve the underlying issues. The court’s ruling also considered Kibet’s compliance with previous orders and his willingness to address the case moving forward. Kibet’s next hearing is set for October 9, when the court will decide if further jail time is warranted.
Kibet’s lawyer, Andrew Muge, emphasized the importance of ensuring that Kibet received a fair hearing, arguing that his rights had been violated. "The decision to commit Collins Kibet to civil jail was made without proper service of summons, violating his constitutional right to a fair hearing,” Muge explained.
The case has since become a focal point for public discourse in Kenya, with numerous citizens sharing their opinions on social media platforms. Some defended Kibet, claiming that he is being unfairly targeted due to his family background, while others condemned him for allegedly neglecting his parental responsibilities.
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Josephine Ombaso commented, “They should leave this man alone. Even if he had the money, he wouldn’t refuse to support his child. People don’t know his real situation.” On the other hand, Dickson Mutinda voiced his frustration over the case, stating, “Issues like this should be resolved by elders in the family. Courts have more important cases to deal with.”
Kibet's familial connections to the former president have undoubtedly amplified interest in the case, with some Kenyans drawing comparisons between his personal challenges and the expectations placed on members of political dynasties. Edward Ireri’s comment encapsulated this sentiment, saying, “He’s only being targeted because he’s Moi’s grandson.”
The magistrate's decision to release Kibet was met with relief by his legal team and supporters, but the child neglect allegations remain unresolved. The upcoming hearing will be closely watched as Kibet continues to face public scrutiny.
The court's decision in October will determine whether Kibet faces further legal consequences or if a resolution will be reached outside the courtroom.
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