Fresh mental test ordered in KNH murder probe

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A dramatic twist has emerged in the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) murder investigation after the High Court in Kibera ordered a new mental assessment for a patient accused of killing a fellow inpatient.

Lady Justice Diana Kavedza directed that a psychiatrist from KNH be granted access to the Nairobi Remand Prison to conduct a fresh evaluation on Kennedy Kalombotole.

The suspect is facing allegations of murdering Edward Maingi Ndegwa while both were admitted at the national referral hospital.

According to court papers, the incident occurred on July 11, 2025, inside Ward 7B, Group C (Male), where Kalombotole and Ndegwa were undergoing treatment.

Ndegwa was later found dead under circumstances that prompted KNH security to alert police, leading to the suspect’s arrest.

Kalombotole, who had been hospitalised since December 1, 2024, was reportedly receiving treatment for multiple ailments, including diabetes and other chronic conditions. He was later transferred to Nairobi Remand Prison as investigations continued.

In her ruling, Justice Kavedza ordered prison authorities to ensure the accused continues to receive his prescribed medication as he awaits the results of the second psychiatric evaluation.

The outcome will determine whether he is mentally fit to stand trial.

Prosecutor Gikui Gichui, Senior Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions, told the court that the second assessment was crucial to ensure a fair process before trial proceedings begin.

The case is set for mention on November 13, 2025, when the court will decide whether to proceed with formal murder charges.

If found fit, Kalombotole will face trial in one of Kenya’s most unusual murder cases — one that unfolded not in a dark alley, but within the walls of the country’s largest and most trusted hospital.