Narok Politician David Mayone Matunke will remain in remand custody for seven days after the High Court sitting in Narok requested for a report that will inform a ruling on his bail application.
Matunke, who has expressed interest in the Narok South parliamentary seat pleaded not guilty to the murder charges when he appeared before Justice Charles Kariuki. The charges are that Matunke killed Koinet Sankale on May 19, 2026, at around 6 p.m. in Naroosora, Osupuko location within Narok South Sub-County.
The judge directed the prosecution to file an affidavit from the investigating officer and a probation report that will be considered when the court determines Matunke’s fate on whether to be released on bail or not.
Justice Kariuki said the reports are necessary to assess concerns relating to security, possible interference with witnesses, and the safety of the accused person should he be released.
The court will also consider a victim impact assessment report before making a final determination on the bond application.
Defense Counsel Parseen Masikonde urged the court to release his client, arguing that the prosecution had failed to provide compelling reasons to justify continued detention. He noted that investigators had not filed any affidavit opposing the bond request.
Masikonde further submitted that Matunke was not a flight risk, telling the court that the accused voluntarily presented himself at Narok Police Station after being summoned by investigators.
The defense also dismissed claims that tensions in the Maji Moto area posed a security threat, maintaining that the accused resides in Narok Town and has alternative residences away from the area cited by the prosecution.
However, the prosecution opposed the application, arguing that the seriousness of the offence, concerns over witness interference, and security considerations outweighed the accused’s right to immediate release on bond.
The court consequently ordered that Matunke remain in custody pending the filing and consideration of the required reports.
The matter will be mentioned again on June 12, 2026, when the court is expected to review the reports and make a ruling on the bond application.
by Emily Kadzo and Emmanuel Karui
