The plea-taking of Kennedy Kalombotole, the main suspect in the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) double murder case, has been postponed again.
The High Court has ordered a second mental assessment, which will take place inside Nairobi Remand Prison, where Kalombotole is held.
The first mental assessment, conducted at KNH, had declared him fit to stand trial. However, concerns over impartiality were raised, prompting the court to order this second evaluation.
The victims’ lawyers questioned KNH’s neutrality. Lawyer James Dennis Maina argued that the hospital, being the site of the alleged offences, might not be the best place to evaluate Kalombotole’s mental state.
But Kalombotole’s lawyer, Philip Maiyo, dismissed these concerns, saying doubts about fairness should come from the defence, not the victims.
Justice Diana Kavedza rejected claims of bias, praising KNH doctors as some of the country’s most qualified specialists.
She also ordered a medical report to check for seizures or epileptic attacks and to outline his treatment.
Dr. Owiti has been directed to conduct the second mental examination, and prison authorities are required to prepare a suitable space. Kalombotole will not be released for this assessment.
Kalombotole is expected to return to court on November 13, 2025, when the KNH report and any independent assessments will be reviewed.
By Vivian K.