Citizen TV anchor Jacque Maribe's defense team will now face Justice James Wakiaga after the unexpected exit of Jessit Lessit from a murder case she's been grossly implicated.
On Monday, Maribe and her fiance Joseph Irungu pleaded not guilty to Monica Kimani's murder, prompting Lessit to ask them to report before a new judge on Wednesday.
Before that, lawyer Katwa Kigen objected continued remanding of the TV anchor, arguing that he rights are being violated.
And now Mr. Wakiaga, a renowned criminal justice judge, will officially listen and determine Maribe's bail application on Thursday.
While Lessit is also handling another high profile murder case of Sharon Otieno where Migori Governor Okoth Obado has been implicated, her colleague Wakiaga is also synonymous to controversial cases with that of lawyer Miguna Miguna having passed through him.
The latest development means Ms. Maribe and her fiance could spend more days in prison since the new judge may take some time to settle.
Prosecutors argue that Maribe, if released on bail, she will use her media influence and connection to politicians to tamper with investigations.
Also, they argue, Irungu could use his political influence to sabotage the case, adding that he has a wide political connection.
They will know jointly their fate on Wednesday as Justice Wakiaga takes over the murder case in which the duo are accused of killing business woman Monica Kimani last month.
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