The man who was caught on video assaulting a comedienne at the Kutit Cultural Festival on August 9 has been charged with assault.
On Tuesday, the suspect appeared before the Kibera Law Courts, where he faced two charges, including robbery with violence and assault causing actual bodily harm.
The charges stem from an incident at the Carnivore Grounds where the accused allegedly robbed popular comedian and digital content creator Bella Comedy, whose real name is Carren Chepchumba, of Ksh30,000 and a smartphone valued at Ksh26,000.
According to court submissions, the assault took place at approximately 8pm, when the accused was caught on video attacking the comedienne.
Incidentally, the confrontation occurred as the comedienne was filming content during the festival, which she attended to engage with other creatives and document the celebrations for her online platforms.
During the festivities, she was approached by the man who, according to her statement, suddenly turned violent by dragging her aside before launching a brutal physical attack, leaving her with multiple injuries.
"It was during the content creation when she met the accused person, who dragged her and assaulted her with kicks and blows, causing multiple injuries on her leg, stomach, and chest," a statement from the Officer of the Director of Public Prosecutions read.
The suspect pleaded not guilty to all charges in front of Principal Magistrate C. M. Njagi and was released on a bond of Ksh500,000. The matter is set for mention on August 18.
In the wake of the viral incident, Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi condemned the assault as he urged the main suspect to surrender to authorities.
"The assault on Bella Comedy... is concerning. Violence against women is unacceptable... Surrender yourself to the nearest police station," part of the statement read.
Gender Cabinet Secretary Hanna Wendot also condemned the incident, asserting that her ministry did not condone any act of violence, harassment or assault on women and girls.
Stating that it was a direct violation of the fundamental rights and freedoms enshrined in the Constitution, she confirmed that the Gender Ministry had kicked off investigations.
