The High Court in Kibera has ordered a fresh mental assessment for Kennedy Kalombotole, the man accused of murdering two people at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) earlier this year.
Justice Diana Kavedza on Thursday, October 23, 2025, directed that a psychiatrist from KNH visit Nairobi Remand Prison to conduct the second evaluation. The results will determine whether Kalombotole is mentally fit to stand trial for the alleged killings.
According to court documents, Kalombotole had been admitted to KNH as a patient since December 1, 2024. He is accused of killing another patient, Edward Maingi Ndegwa, on July 11, 2025, while both were admitted at Ward 7B, Group C (Male).
Police reports also linked him to an earlier fatal incident inside the hospital, though details of the second victim remain under investigation. Witnesses claimed that Kalombotole had shown erratic behavior in the days leading up to the attack.
The case drew national attention due to the unusual setting of the crime — Kenya’s largest public hospital — and raised questions about patient safety and mental health supervision in public facilities.
In her directive, Justice Kavedza instructed prison authorities to ensure Kalombotole continues receiving treatment for diabetes and any other existing medical conditions while in custody.
The judge emphasized that the second psychiatric report will be crucial in determining the next legal step.
“The court must be satisfied that the accused fully understands the charges against him before trial begins,” she said.
Senior Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Gikui Gichui, appearing for the State, told the court that the second evaluation was necessary to avoid delays and ensure a fair trial.
“The first report raised concerns about the suspect’s mental stability. This fresh assessment will help establish his current condition,” Gichui said.
The prosecution is expected to file formal murder charges once the psychiatric findings are submitted to the court.
The matter will be mentioned on November 13, 2025, when the court will review the psychiatrist’s report and decide whether Kalombotole is fit to take plea.
Meanwhile, security has been tightened around the suspect following reports of unpredictable behavior during previous remand sessions.
The case has reignited public debate over security and mental health management in hospitals, especially at KNH. Health experts have called for stricter monitoring of patients with mental disorders and improved coordination between hospitals and law enforcement to prevent similar tragedies.
As the legal process continues, the families of the victims say they are hopeful that justice will be served.
“We only want the truth and accountability for what happened inside that hospital,” said a relative of the late Edward Ndegwa.
