By Cyrus Kimanga
Three filmmakers charged in connection with the controversial “Blood Parliament” documentary by the BBC have urged a Nairobi court to expedite the handling of their case, citing fears of possible interference and further delays.
The filmmakers Brian Adagala, Mark Denver Karubiu, and Christopher Wamae, were arrested alongside the late Wambugu in May 2025 and detained at Muthaiga Police Station following the release of a BBC documentary.
Appearing before Milimani Chief Magistrate Lucas Onyina, the trio requested that their file be forwarded to the original trial magistrate, Hon. Wambu, who previously handled the matter before being transferred to Mombasa.
Through their advocate, Ian Mutiso, the filmmakers argued that the case is highly sensitive as it touches on the June 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests and the alleged killings at the Kenyan Parliament building.
The defense told the court that prolonged delays in the proceedings could expose the case to undue interference, particularly from investigative agencies. They expressed concern that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) might take further actions that could prejudice the accused if the matter is not promptly placed before the initial trial court.
The documentary in question reportedly examined events surrounding the deadly anti-Finance Bill protests, which sparked nationwide outrage and raised questions about the use of force by security agencies.
The suspects were arraigned under a miscellaneous application filed by the DCI, which remains active to date. However, no formal charges have been preferred against them by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). They are currently out on bail under court-imposed conditions.
The court is expected to give directions on whether the file will be forwarded to the transferred magistrate or reassigned within the Milimani Law Courts, as the matter continues to draw public interest due to its political and human rights implications.
The suspects are accused of involvement in the BBC Africa Eye’s 40-minute documentary, Blood Parliament.
