Convict in 2015 Muchai case seeks reduced sentence, cites good conduct

Suspects present during the judgement linked to the murder of former Kabete MP George Muchai at Milimani law courts, Nairobi on March 13, 2026/LEAH MUKANGAI

Raphael Kimani Gachie, one of the convicts linked to the 2015 robbery case associated with the murder of former Kabete Member of Parliament George Muchai, has asked the court for leniency, citing his personal reform and rehabilitation efforts while in custody.

Represented by lawyer Martina Swiga, Gachie urged Chief Magistrate Lucas Onyina to take into account his conduct during the eight years he has spent in prison.

In his plea, Gachie highlighted his spiritual journey, noting that he received baptism under the care of the Kenya Prisons Catholic Chaplaincy. He said he has actively participated in church leadership, demonstrating a commitment to personal reform.

"Even while the second convict was incarcerated and in police custody, he received his baptism under the custody of the Kenya Prisons Catholic Chaplaincy. He has been an active participant in church leadership while still in custody," his lawyer stated.

The court also heard that Gachie has contributed to the prison community by volunteering as an IT teacher and a French language instructor. He taught fellow inmates and some prison officers, a move Swiga said reflects his dedication to giving back and fostering skills development among those in custody.

“To demonstrate the significant reform he has undergone, we have attached a recommendation letter from Kenya Prisons Services dated 18th March 2026, highlighting his conduct and contribution to rehabilitation programs,” Swiga told the court.

The lawyer emphasised that Gachie is sincerely remorseful for his role in the offences and has extended apologies to both the complainant and the State.

“He has undergone personal reform in line with the expectations set out in sentencing guidelines, and we believe this should be taken into account when determining his sentence,” she added.

The defence also noted the convict's medical condition, informing the court that he suffers from chronic gastritis and has been receiving treatment while in custody, a factor Swiga said should be considered when determining the severity of his sentence.

Swiga further argued that Gachie’s active participation in voluntary and community service, both prior to his arrest and during incarceration, makes him a suitable candidate for reintegration into society.

She urged the court to consider the time he has already served and recommended that he receive the minimum sentence or even a non-custodial sentence, noting that the mitigating factors align with the objectives of rehabilitation under the law.

The matter was before Chief Magistrate Onyina ahead of the sentencing of six individuals linked to robberies with violence connected to the killing of George Muchai.

Gachie’s plea is among several mitigation arguments presented by defence teams, focusing on good conduct, remorse, and engagement in rehabilitation programmes.