A family in Nyeri County is reeling from heartbreak after five of its members were handed lengthy prison sentences, marking a tragic chapter in their lives.
John Ritho Kihoi, a 60-year-old father, along with his three sons and a son-in-law, has been sentenced to a total of 100 years behind bars. Each was given 20 years for causing grievous harm to a fellow villager—a punishment that has left their family shattered.
The incident at the center of this tragedy unfolded at a local bar, where Kihoi and his son-in-law had gone for drinks. What began as a simple act of generosity took a dark turn. Kihoi offered to buy drinks for another man and his wife, hoping to extend a friendly gesture. However, the man took offense, particularly at the inclusion of his wife in the treat, and tensions quickly flared.
What followed was a violent confrontation. According to reports, stones were thrown and tempers boiled over. Kihoi, who later admitted to being intoxicated at the time, says his memory of the altercation is hazy.
A year later, authorities arrested Kihoi, his sons, and his son-in-law, charging them all with assault. Despite Kihoi’s firm defense that his sons were not present at the scene, the court found them guilty and sentenced each man to 20 years in prison.
The verdict has devastated the family. With the men—the main providers—now incarcerated, the responsibility of keeping the household afloat has fallen on the women and children left behind.
In emotional court scenes, the men expressed deep regret and anguish. One of the sons, fighting back tears, urged his wife to remain strong and raise their children until his expected release in 2037.
Kihoi remains adamant that his sons were wrongfully convicted, but all his attempts to appeal the ruling have failed.
Now, the family must navigate an uncertain future, burdened by loss and the overwhelming challenge of survival without their loved ones.
