A Mombasa based judge has won the hearts of many Kenyans after he ordered a small harambee to a couple that had been brought to court for stealing a bale of wheat flour.
Principal Magistrate Vincent Adet initiated the contribution for the woman, Saumu Ali, who was charged alongside her husband by giving out Sh1000.
He then implored members of the public, journalists and court officials to contribute any amount to the couple's food kitty.
Samu and her husband Evans Odhiambo were charged with stealing contrary to section 268 (1) as read with section 275 of the penal code.
The two are said to have committed the offence at Shimanzi Area in Mvita Sub-county, Mombasa county, on April 13.
The bale of flour they stole was valued at 1,980, which was a property of Grain Industries Limited.
The judge set free the accused persons noting that he had considered the probation report presented before the court.
He also said the accused persons confessed to the police their actions, an indicator that they were sorry for committing the offence.
”On humanitarian grounds, especially for the first accused person, I have considered the circumstances under which the offence was committed and I sympathize with her situation, with three kids under her care and no source of income and am of the view that let buy her a bale of wheat flour and some meat for today,” Adet said.
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko reacted to the incident saying the ruling by the judge is biblical Solomonic wisdom.
"This judge deserves a reward. Najua ni familia nyingi ziko na shida juu ya Umaskini, ukosefu wa kazi na hali ngumu za kiuchumi kwa sasa as SRT we shall support the family. But suluhisho ni kuhakikisha tunacreate nafasi za kazi nyingi ndio watu wengi waweze kujitegemea." he said.
Many Kenyansshared similar sentiments as that of the Governor.
