On August 9, 2019, lawyer Wafula Simiyu made an emotional plea to Chief Magistrate Martha Mutuku to spare Frank Wanyama and Alex Olaba, two rugby players found guilty of rape charges. The case, which carries a minimum jail term of 15 years, has been a torturous period for the young men, who have been discontinued from their respective universities and stopped from playing for their team.
Simiyu argued that the two are first-time offenders who have obeyed court directions and attended all court sessions. He emphasized that they come from humble backgrounds and have been able to help their families, with the first accused having seven siblings and the second accused having four siblings.
However, the prosecution dismissed the pleas, urging the judge to consider the victim and the severity of the crime. The magistrate postponed the ruling to next Friday, August 16, terming the case 'quite hefty'. The accused were directed to remain in custody until Friday next week.
The players were found guilty of raping a female musician in Nairobi at Seefa apartments in Highrise early last year.
