DPP withdraws case against Kipchoge Keino after Rift Valley MPs asked Uhuru to “intervene”

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Noordin Haji has formally withdrawn charges against renowned Kenyan athlete and former Olympic champion Kipchoge Keino.

The 78-year old veteran was arrested and charged with corruption-related charges that led to loss of Sh55 million during his term as National Olympic Committee of Kenya (Nock) chairman.

His lawyer, Cecil Miller, confirmed the withdrawal of charges, adding that Keino was likely to become a state witness against the other suspects.

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Caleb Kositany

The development came barely a month after Rift Valley politicians called on President Uhuru Kenyatta to intervene and have the DPP withdraw charges against Keino.

“Keino I believe deserves respect because he is an honorable person who is an elder as he is more than 80 years old,” said Soy MP Caleb Kositany.

Kositany’s comments were echoed by Turkana Central MP Lodepe Nakara.

The DPP did not release a statement to explain the circumstances that led to the withdrawal of charges against the retired athlete.

Despite gaining public confidence over his confidence, the political class has continued to raise suspicious statements on the work of the DPP.

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Cornel Rasanga Case

In October, Siaya Governor Cornel Rasanga told a public gathering where ODM Leader Raila Odinga was present, that he had called the former Prime Minister after he learnt the DPP had planned to arrest him on return from a Canadian trip.

He added that to his pleasant surprise, the matter was never raised after his return, saying Odinga had intervened.

The Office of the DPP has not responded to the claims from the political class, but Haji has promised to abide by the law and execute his mandate from any undue influence.