Comedian and activist Eric Omondi entered a plea of not guilty to charges of obstructing traffic, violating Section 58(c) of the Kenya Roads Act.
The indictment accuses Omondi of unlawfully impeding vehicular movement along Kimathi Street in Nairobi on May 18, 2026. Prosecutors maintain that he unloaded 120 empty 10-liter plastic containers from an Isuzu truck (registration KAR 508Y), causing disruption to normal traffic flow.
Omondi’s defense team, consisting of Danstan Omari, Babu Owino, and Mango, petitioned the court for lenient bail conditions. They contended that the offense carries bail eligibility and that no substantial grounds existed to warrant continued custody.
Omari informed the court that the containers were intended for public distribution to aid citizens in water collection and storage. He emphasized that many Kenyans depend on such vessels for their everyday water requirements.
“The defendant has political aspirations and acquired the containers for distribution among his supporters. It is common knowledge that these jerricans are crucial for water preservation. Following their confiscation, the intended recipients have been deprived of access,” Omari stated.
Babu Owino further informed the court that Omondi’s arrest occurred under dubious circumstances. He alleged that police officers prevented him from boarding a flight prior to the apprehension.
Referencing Article 28 of the Constitution, which protects human dignity, Owino contended that the arrest procedure at the international airport was degrading and humiliating.
“The detention was conducted in a disgraceful manner at an international airport. When I visited the location where he was detained and requested bail, the commanding officer refused,” Owino informed the court.
Owino also questioned the validity of the charge, noting that the alleged offense took place during a period when protests had already caused citywide transportation disruptions.
“Your Honour, there was virtually no traffic to obstruct on that occasion. Even police vehicles were reportedly immobilized due to fuel shortages,” he argued.
He requested the court to release Omondi on personal recognizance, suggesting that law enforcement should focus on more severe criminal cases.
The prosecution did not object to the bail request, but pointed out that Omondi had previously been summoned but failed to respond, resulting in his arrest. They also clarified that he had not boarded the flight when he was taken into custody.
After evaluating arguments from both parties, the court ordered Omondi’s release on a personal bond of Ksh 100,000.
The case will be mentioned again on June 2.