MP Released on Cash Bail in Viral Assault Case

The Narok High Court has released Kitutu Chache South Member of Parliament Antony Kibagendi on a cash bail of Ksh100,000, following his denial of assault charges linked to a December 2025 incident in Kisii County.

Kibagendi appeared before the court on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, where he pleaded not guilty to allegations that he physically assaulted another individual. 

The court granted him bail, noting that the prosecution had not provided sufficient grounds to deny his liberty at this stage of the case.

The MP is required to adhere strictly to all bail conditions and ensure his presence in court for the scheduled hearing, which has been set for March 2, 2026, at the Narok High Court.
Arrest and Transfer

Kibagendi was arrested in Nairobi on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, by detectives who initially transported him to the DCI Headquarters along Kiambu Road. 

He was subsequently held at Muthaiga Police Station before being transferred to Keroka and finally to Narok for arraignment.

The arrest stemmed from an incident captured on CCTV in Kisii during December 2025. The footage, which circulated widely on social media, shows a man, believed to be Kibagendi, engaging in a physical altercation with another person seated at a restaurant. 

Witnesses observed the two briefly scuffle before others attempted to separate them. During the confrontation, Kibagendi reportedly lashed out at a bystander who intervened to calm the situation.
Legal Proceedings

Police had earlier indicated that the legislator could voluntarily report to authorities to assist in fast-tracking the investigation. 

Despite this, the incident progressed to a formal arrest, leading to his arraignment at the Narok High Court.

The court’s decision to grant bail reflects the principle that all accused persons are entitled to liberty unless compelling evidence suggests otherwise. 

The MP is now expected to comply with legal requirements while the investigation and prosecution continue.
Public Reaction and Political Context

The arrest of a sitting MP has sparked debate about the handling of public officials in criminal investigations, particularly concerning the distance of arraignment relative to the location of the alleged offense. 

In Kibagendi’s case, the transfer from Nairobi to Keroka and finally to Narok drew attention, highlighting questions about perceived fairness and due process.

Civil society and legal analysts stress that while no individual is above the law, adherence to proper legal procedures and bail rights is critical to maintaining public confidence in the justice system.
Background on the Allegation

The assault charge arises from an altercation at a restaurant in Kisii, which allegedly involved physical aggression in broad daylight. 

While the footage shows Kibagendi engaging with another person, the MP maintains his innocence, asserting that the incident has been misinterpreted.

The case has attracted attention nationally, partly due to the MP’s profile and the viral nature of the CCTV footage. 

Observers note that the proceedings could set a precedent regarding how lawmakers are treated in criminal investigations, especially where evidence is captured on digital media.
Next Steps

With bail granted, the focus now shifts to the upcoming hearing on March 2, 2026, where the court will hear arguments from both the prosecution and defense. 

Until then, Kibagendi must adhere to all conditions, including appearing in court as required.

The handling of this case will be closely watched, as it raises broader issues about political accountability, law enforcement practices, and the balance between public interest and individual rights in Kenya.

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