Nairobi woman jailed for abusive text messages

KENYA: A Nairobi court has sentenced a mother of three to one month in prison after she was found guilty of sending abusive messages to another woman, accusing her of infidelity.

Judy Njugu Murungi, who appeared before Milimani Resident Magistrate Miriam Mugure, was also directed to pay a fine of Sh9,000, failure to which she would serve the sentence.

She pleaded guilty to sending abusive text messages on diverse dates last year to Genevieve Wasonga, an advocate of the High Court.

Ms Murungi faced six counts, with each being fined Sh1,500 or a one-month imprisonment. The magistrate warned the accused against misusing telecommunication gadgets.

"Being a first-time offender, I advise you to utilise the telecommunication device wisely, and since you've continuously apologised to the complainant and have asked for leniency and mercy, you are fined Sh1,500 or in default to face one month in jail," said the magistrate.

The prosecution had requested the court to confiscate Murungi's phone and simcards for destruction. The magistrate declined, saying they had not been recorded as part of exhibits.

Meanwhile, the High Court in Nairobi has adjourned a case involving Embakasi Ranching Company due to withdrawal notices filed by some petitioners.

Lady Justice Lucy Nyambura Gacheru Wednesday said she could not proceed with the hearing because some petitioners were not ready to proceed.

"Some of the plaintiffs have filed withdrawal notices and it seems they are not ready to proceed with this matter," she said.

"The Lands Cabinet Secretary should release land titles to the owners because title deeds are like a Bible to them," said Samuel Thuita Mwangi, chairman of Embakasi Ranching Company while speaking to reporters. The case will be mentioned on May 19.