Baringo headteacher who threw baby into a fire denies attempted murder charge

A father who threw his five-month-old baby into a fire over his wife’s alleged infidelity has been charged with attempted murder.

Paul Kipyegon, a primary school headteacher, who appeared before Baringo Senior Resident Magistrate Nerolyne Idagwa on Tuesday, denied subjecting the baby, Aegwo Kipyego, to cruel treatment.

The offense was committed on April 25, 2021, at Ngaratuko village in Baringo North Sub-county, Baringo County. 

State prosecutor Joseck Abwajo opposed an application by Kipyegon to be released on bond, saying there was a likelihood of him interfering with one of the key witnesses who happens to be the mother of the child.

“The state opposes the bail application. As much as the constitution allows the accused to be granted bail. We have three compelling reasons why the accused should not be released at this stage,” said Abwajo.

The prosecution said the state has a duty to protect the minor and the mother who is taking care of the baby.

“As this court proceeds at the moment, the minor in question is in critical condition at Baringo County Hospital undergoing treatment, and upon this charge, the state strongly believes that the minor together with the mother will go back to the same house, which they share with the accused person, thus the likelihood of interference of witnesses will not be ruled out,” added Abwajo.

Abwajo further urged the court to look into the relationship between the accused person and the witnesses. He recommended that the suspect be taken for a mental assessment.

Earlier, Kipyegon had pleaded with the court to be released on bond saying the offense was bailable.  He told the court that if released on bond, he needed time to get himself a surety, adding that he was ailing.

“I need the duration of one week. I’m expecting someone to come to court, to stand as a surety. I have a stomachache,” Kipyego said.

The court will give a ruling on the bail application on May 10. 

The case will be heard on June 14.