This archive report was first published on 10 July 2020.
On July 10, 2020, Grace Wakhungu, a 79-year-old businesswoman, filed an application seeking her release on bond pending the hearing and determination of her appeal.
Wakhungu is serving a 69-year jail term for stealing Sh313 million from the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB).
Her lawyer, Senior Counsel Paul Muite, argued that due to her age and underlying hypertension, there is a likelihood that she has not been in a proper mental state to stand trial.
Muite further stated that Wakhungu may have been unable to understand the nature and consequences of the proceedings as contemplated during the trial.
He added that she displayed traits such as difficulty in concentrating, anxiety, long-lasting sadness, and other signs of inferior mental health during the trial.
Wakhungu's lawyer requested the court to direct the officer in charge of Lang'ata Women's Prison to conduct geriatric and psychiatrist tests, in the presence of her doctor, to assess her physical and mental health.
He argued that if not assessed and released, her physical and mental health might deteriorate permanently.
Wakhungu was sentenced to jail alongside Sirisia MP John Waluke, who was found guilty of five counts in connection to theft at NCPB and will serve 67 years in prison if he fails to pay more than Sh1 billion in fine.
