The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Noordin Haji has dropped cases against six Azimio la Umoja leaders who were being charged with participating in unlawful demonstrations and damaging property.
Haji through the prosecution counsel told the court on Monday, April 3 that they sought to withdraw the cases for the sake of dialogue and peace.
“We wish to withdraw the case under section 87A of the Penal Code to create an enabling environment for peace between the accused persons and the state. I urge that the matter be withdrawn,” the prosecution said.
Ugunja MP James Opiyo Wandayi, Kilifi Senator Stewart Madzayo, Richard Chonga (Kilifi South MP), Amina Laura Mnyazi (Malindi), George Yogo Obure and Esther Oromi who did not appear in court, were discharged by Kahawa Law Court senior principal magistrate Boaz Ombewa on Monday.
“I have considered the application by the state for withdrawal of the six accused persons under section 87A, and I hereby discharge them,” Magistrate Ombewa said.
The six through their lawyer Danstan Omari thanked the state and the judiciary for withdrawing the case.
Omari said the reasons given by the state are fundamental.
“The charge sheet that was brought in court would not be sustained. It’s our considered view that Parliament should move with speed and underline the section so that the state does not get embarrassed by relying on a section that does not exist. The state should improve on law reform,” Omari told the court.
