The High Court has issued fresh orders barring the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) from prosecuting embattled businessman Jimmy Wanjigi over allegations of illegal firearm possession.
This comes after Wanjigi, a prominent businessman and former presidential candidate, filed an application challenging the prosecution, which was subsequently certified as urgent.
Milimani High Court Justice Bahati Mwamuye, presiding over the case on Tuesday, ruled in favor of Wanjigi, effectively stopping the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) from taking any further legal action against him concerning the firearms registered in his name.
The ruling also prevents the ODPP from confiscating, retaining, or interfering with Wanjigi’s firearms until the case is fully heard and determined.
Wanjigi’s legal battle over firearm possession has been a point of contention, attracting significant public interest due to his high-profile status in Kenya’s business and political circles.
The businessman, who has previously been involved in various legal and political disputes, argued that the charges were part of a targeted campaign against him, possibly motivated by his political ambitions and outspoken nature.
In his ruling, Justice Mwamuye emphasized the need for due process and fairness, noting that Wanjigi’s rights as a firearm holder should be respected until the allegations against him are thoroughly examined in court.
The judge’s decision highlights the importance of judicial oversight in cases involving high-profile individuals and sensitive issues such as firearm ownership.
The ruling effectively puts a hold on any immediate legal proceedings against Wanjigi, providing him with temporary relief as his legal team prepares to contest the charges.
The case will now proceed through the courts, with Wanjigi expected to argue that the firearms in question were legally acquired and registered, challenging the validity of the DPP’s allegations.
Wanjigi, however, has consistently maintained that the firearms in question were lawfully acquired and duly registered.
This development marks the latest chapter in Wanjigi’s ongoing legal battles, and it remains to be seen how the courts will ultimately rule on the matter.
For now, Wanjigi’s legal team will likely focus on building a strong defense, while the ODPP will need to present compelling evidence to proceed with the prosecution.
