Azimio leaders in Parliament Opiyo Wandayi and Stewart Madzayo can heave with relief after the court dropped their case on Monday, April 3.
Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke lawyer Danstan Omari confirmed that the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Noordin Haji dropped charges against Wandayi, Madzayo, and four others who were charged with destruction of property during the mass action.
This followed demands by Azimio leader Raila Odinga to have all those arrested during the mass action protests freed unconditionally to pave way for talks with President William Ruto.
"The application was made orally by the prosecutor to which our team responded to. Magistrate Boaz Ombewa granted the request by the DPP," Omari stated.
Omari confirmed that the two legislators alongside Kilifi South lawmaker Richard Chonga, Malindi Member of Parliament Amina Mnyazi, George Obure and Esher Oromi will also be refunded their Ksh50,000 cash bail.
Speaking in court, the lead prosecutor explained that the withdrawal of the charges was to pave way for an alternative means of settlement between the aggrieved parties.
"We wish to withdraw the case under section 87A of the Penal Code to create an enabling environment for peace between the accused persons and the state. I urge that the matter be withdrawn", the court heard.
Ombewa granted the plea to withdraw the case, which the ODPP termed urgent.
Omari welcomed the decision and called for the amendment of the law to prohibit police from dealing with political matters. He expressed hope that all other accused arrested would also be released.
The six were charged with participating in an unlawful assembly and willfully causing damage to a private vehicle on March 20. They pleaded not guilty.
Following their arrest, Azimio leaders accused the police of siding with the government instead of being nonpartisan. The Raila Odinga-led wing dared the Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome to arrest the former Prime Minister.
However, on April 2, the ODM chief called off the demonstrations at President William Ruto's request.
