Ex-Journalist Moses Dola Freed After 10 Years for Wife’s Murder

Nairobi, Kenya – March 2025 – Former journalist Moses Dola has been released from prison after serving 10 years for the killing of his wife, fellow journalist Wambui Kabiru, in a case that gripped the nation for over a decade.

His release has reignited discussions on justice, rehabilitation, and the impact of domestic violence.

The Case That Shocked the Nation

Dola was convicted in 2018 for the manslaughter of Wambui Kabiru, a journalist with the Nation Media Group. The tragic incident occurred in 2011, and after years of legal battles, he was sentenced to 10 years in prison by the High Court.

The court ruled that while Wambui died from a domestic altercation, there was no evidence of premeditated murder, leading to the lesser charge of manslaughter.

Early Release and Prison Reforms

Dola’s release comes as part of the Kenyan judicial system’s sentence review and rehabilitation programs, which allow for early release based on good behavior. Having served two-thirds of his sentence, he was eligible for parole and was freed earlier this week.

Emotional Reactions and Mixed Public Opinion

His release has sparked mixed reactions, with Wambui Kabiru’s family expressing disappointment and grief, arguing that justice was not fully served. In contrast, some supporters believe he has paid his dues and should be allowed to rebuild his life.

Speaking after his release, Dola briefly addressed the media, saying:

“It has been a long and painful journey. I deeply regret what happened, and I am committed to living a better life moving forward.”

He also acknowledged the impact of his actions on Wambui’s family and their son, who was only a toddler when the tragedy occurred.

What’s Next for Moses Dola?

Having spent a decade behind bars, Dola is expected to focus on reintegrating into society. Sources close to him indicate that he plans to stay away from the public spotlight and possibly venture into advocacy work on conflict resolution and rehabilitation.

Meanwhile, Wambui’s family and women’s rights activists have renewed calls for stricter domestic violence laws, emphasizing the need for stronger legal frameworks to protect women from intimate partner violence.

Rising cases of Domestic Violence in Kenya

The case remains a painful reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and the devastating impact it has on families. As Kenya continues to grapple with rising cases of gender-based violence, the discussion surrounding justice, rehabilitation, and victim support remains more relevant than ever.