Nairobi, Kenya – May 13, 2025: Renowned gospel musician Alex Apoko, better known as Ringtone, will now take his plea virtually in a land fraud case that has faced significant delays due to his repeated absences from court.
The artist is charged alongside Alfred Juma Ayora for allegedly conspiring to defraud Teresiah Adhiambo of a 0.47-acre property in Karen worth over KSh 50 million. The case has been stuck in limbo for weeks, as Ringtone has yet to formally take a plea, preventing the court from officially recognizing him as an accused party.
Timeline of Missed Court Appearances
Ringtone first failed to appear at the Milimani Law Courts on March 28, when charges were formally filed. Since then, he has skipped multiple hearings, citing illness.
His lawyers reported that he was initially admitted to Trinity Care Centre in Ngong before being transferred to a hospital in Kasarani. Despite these claims, the court has grown increasingly frustrated with his absences, with Senior Principal Magistrate Dolphina Alego issuing an active warrant of arrest against him.
Court’s Stance
Magistrate Alego expressed dissatisfaction with the delays, stating:
“The second accused has not taken plea, so he is not known to this court.”
The court declined a request to lift the warrant of arrest, emphasizing the need for the case to move forward.
Virtual Plea Approved
In a bid to prevent further disruptions, the prosecution proposed that Ringtone take his plea virtually. The investigating officer confirmed the singer’s location at a hospital in Kasarani and noted cooperation from medical staff regarding his condition.
Magistrate Alego approved the proposal and scheduled the matter for mention and possible plea-taking on August 6. The court also directed the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to guide the next steps, highlighting concerns over the singer’s absences, inconsistent legal representation, and an apparent lack of seriousness in addressing the matter.
Meanwhile, Ringtone’s co-accused, Alfred Juma Ayora, has already entered a not guilty plea.
Case Implications
The decision to proceed with a virtual plea underscores the court’s determination to resolve the matter promptly, despite challenges posed by Ringtone’s repeated absences. As the case unfolds, it remains a significant point of interest, given the high-profile nature of the accused and the substantial value of the disputed property.
