NAIROBI — A Nairobi court has released businessman and political figure Phillip Aroko on a cash bail of Ksh.300,000, days after a judge allowed detectives more time to dig into the murder of Kasipul MP Charles Were.
Aroko, who is being investigated over the killing of the first-term lawmaker, appeared at the JKIA Law Courts earlier this month. The court said police had gathered key evidence during the extended period of detention.
“With the seven days granted to the prosecution, we’ve managed to cover critical areas. The time in custody was sufficient,” prosecutors told the court.
Aroko, representing himself, assured the court he would follow all instructions. That includes surrendering his passport to the Kibera Court as a condition of bail.
The bail comes just a week after High Court Judge Kavenza ruled in favour of the state’s plea to detain Aroko longer to allow investigators to finalise sensitive leads. At the time, the judge said the request was “reasonable and proportionate,” adding that the extra week was necessary given the “delicate” nature of the case.
Still, the court was clear: the extended detention was not punishment, but a legal step to avoid compromising the probe while respecting Aroko’s rights.
Earlier, prosecutors expressed concern that releasing Aroko too soon could interfere with the investigation. But with his statement now recorded and key witness accounts collected, they agreed he could be released under the same conditions previously set by the JKIA magistrate’s court.
The murder of MP Charles Were sent shockwaves through Kasipul and Parliament alike. Police have remained tight-lipped about specific findings, but sources close to the case describe it as a “high-stakes investigation” involving multiple suspects and complex motives.
Aroko’s legal troubles are far from over. The case continues to unfold, with investigators expected to present their findings in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, the public watches closely, hoping for answers — and justice.
