The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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William Kabogo, the former Kiambu governor and nominee for Information Communications and Technology Cabinet Secretary, has reiterated his innocence regarding the tragic death of university student Mercy Keino in June 2011.
In response to a question from Teso South MP Mary Emase about his alleged involvement, Kabogo firmly denied any role in Keino’s death.
“It’s been claimed that I hosted a party, but that is not true. This was simply a case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time,” Kabogo explained, referencing the incident that occurred at a restaurant in 2011.
Speaking before the Committee on Appointments, Kabogo emphasized that the restaurant was a public venue with multiple groups present on that day. He also revealed that he did not learn of Keino’s death until two weeks after her burial.
“Even if I had seen her the day after the incident, I wouldn’t have recognized her,” Kabogo added.
He expressed sympathy for the Keino family, acknowledging the grief caused by the tragedy.
The death of Mercy Keino had been the subject of an inquest at the Milimani Magistrates Court. Kabogo, who was serving as Governor at the time, clarified that he had fully participated in the legal proceedings.
“I was the Governor, but I took the time to attend for six days of cross-examination,” he noted.
He pointed out that the court’s verdict, which took about a year and a half, cleared him of any involvement in the incident. The ruling concluded that Keino’s death was due to a hit-and-run accident with a truck, not the actions of anyone present at the restaurant.
Kabogo also shared his experience of watching distressing video footage related to the incident in court, recalling his conversation with Keino’s father.
“I advised Mercy Keino’s father not to watch those videos because they were incredibly difficult for any parent to see,” Kabogo said.
He expressed his condolences, saying, “It’s a tragic story. I sympathize with the family and pray that her soul rests in peace.” He also expressed hope for justice, stating, “As a God-fearing person, I believe one day the truck driver, or whoever was in the truck that killed Mercy Keino, will come forward and admit it. I hope that day will come.”
