The High Court has rescheduled the plea-taking for 12 police officers charged in connection with the 2017 murder of Baby Samantha Pendo in the Nyalenda slums of Kisumu County.
Initially set for January 15, 2025, the hearing has now been postponed to January 29, 2025.
The delay was due to the case being reassigned to Lady Justice M. Muigai, following the transfer of Lady Justice L. Mutende, the original judge handling the matter, to the Nyahururu High Court.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) confirmed that the change in judicial oversight necessitated the rescheduling.
The police officers are accused of being involved in the fatal beating of Baby Samantha Pendo, who was just 18 months old at the time of her death.
The tragic incident occurred during a police operation in the Nyalenda area following the 2017 general elections.
Baby Pendo’s death sparked widespread public outrage and calls for accountability in the police force, leading to the prosecution of the officers involved.
The delay in plea-taking has further prolonged the legal process, adding to the frustrations of the victim’s family and the public, who have been eagerly awaiting justice for the infant.
The case has drawn significant attention due to its high-profile nature, as it highlights issues of police brutality and the need for reform within the Kenyan police force.
As the case progresses, there is growing public pressure on the judicial system to expedite the process and ensure that those responsible for the tragic death of Baby Pendo are held accountable.
The rescheduled court session will be closely watched by various civil society groups, human rights organizations, and the general public, all of whom are advocating for justice for the young victim.
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