The High Court has issued interim orders restraining popular Kikuyu musician Samuel Muchoki Ndirangu, better known as Samidoh, from contacting or interfering with a woman who has sued him over rape allegations.
In the ruling, Justice Lawrence Mugambi directed that Samidoh be barred from intimidating, harassing, or otherwise interfering with the complainant, identified in court documents only as M.R.W. to protect her dignity and security.
“…pending the hearing and determination of the instant application, an interim non-contact and non-interference order is hereby issued restraining the Interested Party, whether by himself, his servants, agents or assigns, from contacting, intimidating, harassing or otherwise interfering,” reads the order.
Complainant Shielded From Public Exposure
The court further ordered that all pleadings and documents in the case remain sealed to conceal the woman’s identity. Where necessary, proceedings will also be held in camera.
M.R.W. has petitioned the High Court for orders directing investigative and prosecutorial agencies to act on her complaint, claiming she preserved digital evidence, including audio recordings and electronic messages, of the alleged assault and subsequent interactions with Samidoh.
She alleges that between 2021 and 2023, the musician engaged in manipulative and coercive communication with her, alternating between intimidation and feigned friendliness. In one instance, she claims he insulted her by calling her a “professional prostitute” after she confronted him about the alleged assault.
Orders to Preserve Digital Evidence
Justice Mugambi also instructed the police to secure and preserve all documentary, digital, and electronic evidence, including the woman’s recordings and messages. Written preservation notices are to be issued immediately to the relevant custodians.
The court ordered that the petition and accompanying application be served on Samidoh personally or through a newspaper with national circulation within seven days. Responses are to be filed within seven days of service, with rejoinders allowed within a similar timeframe.
This marks a new legal chapter for the celebrated Kikuyu benga artist, who has now been formally restrained by the court as investigations into the allegations continue.
