Bunge La Mwananchi leader Evans Kawala Jasuba caused a stir in court on Thursday, May 28, after giving unexpected responses during his arraignment, prompting intervention from his legal team.
Jasuba appeared before the High Court facing charges of allegedly inciting members of the public to commit a terrorist act against President William Ruto through remarks made during a gathering at Jacaranda Grounds.
During the plea-taking process, his responses to questions from court officials appeared to create confusion in the courtroom, with some observers interpreting them as potentially damaging to his defence.
Bunge La Mwananchi leader Jasuba’s court remarks force Babu Owino to intervene. Photo: Courtesy.
The situation prompted his lawyer, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, to quickly intervene and advise his client against making further remarks.
The exchange drew reactions from those present in court, including members of the legal fraternity who closely followed the proceedings.
Despite the confusion, the court ultimately recorded a plea of not guilty and proceeded to hear submissions on bail and bond terms.
Babu Owino urged the court to grant his client favourable bail conditions, arguing that Jasuba remained innocent until proven guilty and should not be subjected to punitive terms before trial.
After considering the application and noting that the prosecution had not opposed his release, the court granted Jasuba the option of a Ksh500,000 bond with one surety of a similar amount or an alternative cash bail of Ksh50,000.
The case was scheduled for mention on June 22 as investigations and pre-trial processes continue.
Jasuba was arrested by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Kayole.
Following his arrest, the DCI dismissed claims that he had been abducted, maintaining that he was lawfully apprehended over remarks deemed to be inciteful.
The case has attracted public attention due to the nature of the allegations and the dramatic courtroom moments witnessed during the plea-taking session.
