The High Court has denied bail to police officer Klinzy Baraza, who is charged with the murder of mask vendor Boniface Kariuki, after a fatal shooting during protests in June 2025. The ruling was delivered on Monday, February 9, 2026, with the court citing exceptional circumstances and serious risks should Baraza be released.
Baraza is accused of shooting Kariuki, a street vendor, in Nairobi’s Central Business District on June 17, 2025 an incident that was widely circulated on social media and sparked public outrage. Kariuki later died from his injuries.
In refusing bail, the High Court emphasised that the nature of the case and its intense public profile create a significant risk to the safety and well-being of the victim’s family, who have reportedly received harassment and unsolicited messages since the incident attracted attention.
The prosecution successfully argued that Baraza’s role as a serving police officer gives him access to networks and authority that could be used to interfere with witnesses, undermine the investigation, or impact public confidence in the justice process.
Baraza’s defence had asked for bail on personal grounds, asserting he would comply with bail conditions if released. However, the court found that these considerations were outweighed by the broader public interest, security concerns, and the need to protect the integrity of ongoing proceedings.
The case is set for further mention on February 17, 2026, as the trial progresses. Baraza remains in custody pending the next hearing, underscoring the judiciary’s cautious approach in high-profile cases involving alleged excessive use of force by law enforcement.
By Newshub