Jackton Odhiambo pleads not guilty in murder of LGBTQ activist Edwin Chiloba
The prime suspect in the murder of LGBTQ activist and fashion designer Edwin Kiprotich Kiptoo alias Chiloba has pleaded not guilty.
While appearing before Eldoret High Court Judge Reuben Nyakundi, Jackton Odhiambo denied murdering Chiloba between December 31st and January 3rd 2023.
The State Counsel objected to Odhiambo’s release on bond pending a pre-trial report to ascertain whether he qualifies to be released on bond.
“The republic is opposed to the release of the accused on bond. We are yet to compile a pre-bail report to ascertain whether he is fit to be released on bond,” said State Counsel Mike Mogun.
Defense counsel Mathai Maina opposed the application by the State to deny his client’s bond saying it was too early to object to bond release before the defense makes an application.
However, Justice Nyakundi allowed the State to oppose the release, noting that the defense will have time to interrogate the basis of bond denial even after being opposed.
“The application by the State to object the accused from being released on bond will not prejudice your application challenging the same. The State will be able to serve you with a pre-bail report among other committal bundles to be relied on during pre-trial for you to respond and challenge the application to deny your client a bond,” said Justice Nyakundi.
Last week, the court ordered Odhiambo to undergo a mental evaluation at MTRH before entering a plea today.
Four other suspects among them three minors were set free by the court after evidence shown they had no link to the killing of Chiloba.
