Activist Mercy Tarus was on Friday placed on the spot as she faced contempt of court accusations after failing to honour summons.
The prominent witness in the Finland Education Scholarship Scandal was also accused of discussing critical matters regarding the controversial case in public.
During the court proceedings, the activist was shown footage of her discussing critical matters touching on a case during an appearance on the Iko Nini Podcast on July 24, 2024.
Tarus who appeared in court in a hoodie printed ‘Kenya ni Home’ struggled to explain herself as the prosecution pressed her on why she was in contempt of court.
On September 12, the court ordered Mercy Tarus to appear before it to testify on the contempt allegations raised by the respondents including Uasin Gishu Governor Jackson Mandagor.
"As for Mercy Tarus, serious allegations bordering contempt of court were raised against her that need her to answer. Contempt proceedings should be taken seriously," stated Senior Principal Magistrate Peter Ndege.
"Her attendance must therefore be physical like the other parties involved in the hearing," the judge added.
While detailing events, the prosecution told the court that Mercy Tarus had been served with several court summons but the latter requested to appear for the proceedings virtually.
However, the defence team opposed the blogger's request questioning why the activist should be allowed to appear virtually while the others availed themselves physically.
"As for Mercy Tarus, we confirm that the summons was served to her through WhatsApp and her communication is that she requesting to be allowed to attend virtually," the prosecutor informed the court.
Tarus Insisted that she only learnt of the impending contempt of court charge from social media and opposed to the prosecutor's claims.
Since its commencement, the case has faced a lot of hurdles including the judge's attempt to recurse himself from the matter to witnesses skipping court proceedings.
