The Eldoret High Court witnessed dramatic scenes on Monday after Rose Chepkemboi Rotich, widow of slain marathon legend Samson Kandie, fainted in the dock upon hearing the ruling on her bail application. Rotich, who is accused alongside two other suspects of Kandie’s brutal murder, collapsed as Justice Reuben Nyakundi delivered the decision to deny bail. Court orderlies rushed to assist her, lifting her from the floor and taking her to the holding cells within the court premises.
Reasons for Denial of Bail
Justice Nyakundi denied bail for the accused—Rotich, Jamlick Morogit, and Vincent Ngososei Kiprono—citing several key reasons, including:
- Potential interference with witnesses.
- Safety concerns for the accused if released.
- The risk of the suspects absconding court appearances.
The three have remained in custody since their arrest in October last year by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
Details of the Case
Samson Kandie, a 53-year-old former international marathon champion, was found dead in his home in Elgon View Estate, Eldoret. Authorities allege he was brutally killed by unknown assailants.
The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the athletics community, as Kandie was celebrated for his contributions to Kenyan athletics on the international stage.
Next Steps in the Case
The court has scheduled the next hearing for March 25, 2025, during which the case will proceed to the pre-trial stage.
Public Reaction and Legal Proceedings
The decision to deny bail has drawn mixed reactions, with some applauding the court’s caution while others express concerns over the prolonged detention of the suspects. Kandie’s death remains a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by sports heroes after retirement, sparking conversations about their security and well-being.
