Eight students from Utumishi Girls Academy have denied murdering 16 of their fellow students who died in a dormitory fire on May 28, 2026.
The eight appeared before Kibera High Court Judge Diana Kavedza on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, where they pleaded not guilty to the charges.
They are charged with murder contrary to Section 203 as read with Section 204 of the Penal Code (Cap. 63, Laws of Kenya), with a plea of not guilty entered for each accused.
Following the plea, the defence urged the court to release the students on reasonable bail pending the hearing and determination of the case.
Defence lawyers argued that the accused are not flight risks, have fixed places of abode, and that their parents would ensure they attend all court proceedings.
However, the prosecution, led by Senior Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Gikui Gichui, strongly opposed their release on bail.
The prosecution argued that releasing the accused at this stage would expose them to harassment, stigmatisation, retaliation, mob justice, and other forms of harm due to the heightened public interest surrounding the case.
“My Lady, releasing the accused persons at this stage will put them at a significant risk of retaliation, harassment, stigmatisation, mob justice and other forms of harm due to the heightened public interest surrounding the case,” the prosecution submitted.
The court also heard that continued detention would help preserve the integrity of the trial and ensure the proper administration of justice for both the victims and the accused.
The eight were charged before the Nairobi High Court after the prosecution successfully sought their transfer from Naivasha, citing security concerns arising from public hostility.
According to an intelligence report presented in court, the students could face hostility from members of the public following the deaths of their fellow students.
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