Some of the children charged in connection with the murder of a 16-year-old Utumishi Academy student have applied for plea bargaining, a Kibera Law Courts heard during a mention of the case.

The court was informed that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) had formally received a plea-bargaining request from one of the accused children, while another defence lawyer said he had written to the prosecution seeking similar negotiations on behalf of his client.

State Counsel confirmed that the prosecution had received a formal request concerning Subject 3. The court heard that preliminary discussions had taken place, but further consultations with the child were still necessary.

ALSO READ

Rose Mbithe Mulwa, Two Children and Two Police Officers Deny Mathew Mbobu Murder Charge Kenya Extradites Sancho Kibutu to US to Face Sentencing in Fatal DUI Case High Court Fast-Tracks Mike Sonko’s Bid to Overturn Impeachment Judgments

Another defence lawyer told the court that a formal request had also been sent to the ODPP on behalf of his client. The lawyer asked for enhanced visits to facilitate consultations with the child and the parents.

Other defence lawyers said they were still consulting their clients and their parents before deciding whether to pursue plea negotiations.

Trial Judge Kavedza allowed the discussions to proceed and directed that the parents of all the children be granted two enhanced visits per month.

The visits are to be coordinated with the institution where the children are being held.

The court also directed that the case be mentioned every two weeks to monitor progress in the plea-bargaining discussions. The next mention is scheduled for November 11, 2026.

The requests remain at the negotiation stage, and the court has not, according to the information presented, confirmed that any plea-bargaining agreement has been concluded.

The court further heard that the children were continuing with their education and were expected to sit for examinations the following week.

Children’s Officer Hilda Mbatha confirmed that the minors were attending classes in line with previous court directions.

Judge Kavedza ordered that their education continue uninterrupted as the case progresses.

The matter will return to court on November 11, 2026, when progress in the discussions is expected to be reviewed.