The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Comedian Eric Omondi and seven others have been charged with allegedly obstructing the movement of motor vehicles along Moi Avenue in Nairobi’s Central Business District.
Omondi appeared in court on Tuesday alongside Cyprian Ateka, Alex Ngungu, John Ndungu, Kelvin Mwasia, Josiah Ogutu, Wilson Ouma and Olive Odhiambo. All eight denied the allegations.
The prosecution claims that on September 7, 2026, the group, together with other individuals who have not been charged, unlawfully disrupted the movement of vehicles along Moi Avenue.
READ ALSO: Eric Omondi Arrested in Nairobi CBD
Their alleged actions are said to have interfered with the normal flow of traffic on the busy CBD road.
The accused face charges under Section 58(c) of the Kenya Roads Act, Chapter 408, which criminalises obstruction of the operation of motor vehicles on a road.
Lawyer Links Arrest to Political Activities
Defence lawyer Danstan Omari asked the court to release the accused on personal bond.
Omari argued that the case reflected a pattern where individuals are arrested over political activities and later face cases that fail to progress or are eventually withdrawn.
He said he had represented Omondi since 2017 after receiving instructions from the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga. According to the lawyer, previous cases involving the comedian had also failed to proceed.
Omari accused the prosecution of what he described as a “galloping approach”, alleging that suspects are arrested and taken to court without sufficient follow-up to ensure cases proceed.
The lawyer also connected Omondi’s arrest to his participation in a constitutional amendment campaign, noting that the comedian had previously been involved in collecting signatures for the Punguza Mizigo initiative.
He maintained that the accused were exercising their constitutional rights, including the right to participate in efforts aimed at changing the Constitution.
Omari Urges ODPP to Remain Independent
Omari further called on the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to maintain its independence and avoid becoming a “conveyor belt of the executive.”
He argued that the proposed constitutional reforms, including a proposal to reduce the number of counties from 47 to eight, should be handled through the constitutional process.
The lawyer also urged the court to ensure that the judiciary is not drawn into political disputes.
“Let this court, let the judiciary not be used in political battles. Let us deal with criminals who have committed crimes,” he said.
Regarding Omondi specifically, Omari told the court that the comedian had international commitments, including a planned performance in the United States, which he said would help showcase Kenya internationally.
The prosecution did not object to the accused being released.
The eight were subsequently released on free bond as they await the hearing and determination of the case.
