In a major long-awaited ruling, Milimani Senior Principal Magistrate Robison Ondieki cleared the controversial televangelist, Bishop Gilbert Deya, of child trafficking charges.
The prosecution's failure to build a strong case and the lack of substantial evidence to incriminate Deya were cited as the reasons behind the court's decision.
Deya had been facing five counts of stealing children below 14 years, allegedly committed between 2002 and 2004 in Nairobi's Mountain View estate.
Throughout the prolonged trial, the televangelist maintained his innocence, insisting that he was in London during the period of the alleged offences.
His lawyer, John Swaka, argued that the prosecution's case was riddled with inconsistencies and lacked the necessary elements to secure a conviction.
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"The prosecution's case was marred with inconsistent evidence, which could not mount a strong conviction against my client," stated Deya's lawyer, John Swaka.
Moreover, Deya's defence team contended that the charges brought against him were malicious and strategically aimed at tarnishing his reputation.
They pointed to his presence in the United Kingdom during the timeframe of the alleged crimes as concrete evidence of his innocence.
Outside the Milimani Court premises, Deya and his supporters gathered to hear the outcome of the trial.
The atmosphere was tense as the magistrate announced the verdict, but it soon transformed into jubilation when the court acquitted the televangelist of all charges.
Cheers, songs, and ululations filled the air as the news spread among Deya's followers.
In the aftermath of the court's decision, Bishop Gilbert Deya addressed the media, expressing both relief and gratitude.
"I have been in court for seven years. In the UK, I was having cases in 2004 and was already put in a special institution and under curfew," Deya said.
"But I'm grateful that the case has ended, and my ministry in Kenya can continue. In the UK, trust me, you will see me very soon. Thank you to my supporters also. Gilbert Deya is a free man."
Throughout the legal battle, Deya's followers stood by him unwaveringly.
The case against Bishop Gilbert Deya has sparked discussions on the role of faith leaders in society and the challenges of handling sensitive matters in the justice system.
Despite the protracted legal ordeal that clouded his name, Deya spoke of forgiveness towards his detractors, choosing to look forward and resume his ministry, not just in Kenya but also in the United Kingdom.
The court's verdict brings an end to a challenging chapter for the televangelist, allowing him to concentrate on his spiritual pursuits once more.
As Bishop Gilbert Deya steps into a new phase of his life, he seeks to put the past behind him and continue his spiritual journey, supported by his loyal followers who believe in the miracles he has performed during his ministry.
