A family in Nyeri County is struggling to come to terms with the harsh reality of losing five of its members to prison.
John Ritho Kihoi, a 60-year-old father, along with his three sons and a son-in-law, has been sentenced to a combined 100 years in prison. Each of them will serve 20 years for causing grievous harm to a fellow villager.
The incident that led to this tragedy happened at a local bar. Kihoi and his son-in-law were having drinks when an unexpected conflict arose.
Kihoi had bought drinks for another man and his wife, intending it as a kind gesture. However, this sparked anger in the man, who was unhappy that Kihoi had included his wife in the treat.
What started as a disagreement quickly escalated into a violent altercation. Stones were reportedly thrown during the fight.
Kihoi, who admits he was under the influence of alcohol, says his memory of that night is unclear.
A year later, Kihoi, his sons, and his son-in-law were arrested and charged with assault. Despite Kihoi’s insistence that his sons were not involved and were not even present at the scene, the court found them guilty. All five were sentenced to 20 years each.
This ruling has devastated the family, leaving the women and children behind without their primary providers.
Kihoi and his sons expressed deep sorrow over the sentence. One of the sons tearfully asked his wife to stay strong and take care of their children until he is released in 2037.
Kihoi maintains that his sons are innocent and were unfairly punished. Unfortunately, his pleas and appeals were unsuccessful.
