Stella Anne Mutheu Osewe appeared before Principal Magistrate Benmark Ekhubi at the Milimani Law Courts, where she denied charges of forgery, uttering false documents, and making false statements.
Ranalo Foods director accused of document forgery
The case involves internal leadership disputes at Ranalo Foods, with prosecutors alleging that Osewe forged documents to show that fellow director William Osewe Guida had resigned from the company.
The prosecution claims the alleged offences happened on August 1, 2022.
According to the charge sheet, the documents included a resignation letter, an affidavit of resignation, and an affidavit of share transfer.
Prosecutors allege that the documents carried Guida’s forged signature and were used to process his removal from the company.
Court hears allegations of boardroom dispute
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) is handling the case.
Osewe faces charges under sections of the Penal Code relating to forgery, uttering false documents, and making false statements by a company official.
The prosecution alleges that she submitted the disputed documents to the Director of Business Registration Services to support Guida’s alleged resignation.
The case also involves disputed board minutes that allegedly recorded Guida’s resignation from the company.
Defence seeks lenient bail terms
During the bail hearing, Osewe’s defence team asked the court to consider lenient conditions.
Her lawyers told the court that she cooperated with investigators and voluntarily presented herself to authorities.
The defence also argued that the dispute came from a family disagreement rather than a criminal scheme.
The lawyers said ongoing discussions between the parties could help resolve the matter outside court.
Court grants KSh 500,000 bond
The prosecution asked the court to impose reasonable bail terms, citing the seriousness of the allegations and the importance of protecting corporate governance standards.
After considering submissions from both sides, Magistrate Ekhubi granted Osewe a bond of KSh 500,000.
The court also allowed an alternative cash bail of KSh 250,000.
The magistrate noted Osewe’s cooperation with investigators and her decision to voluntarily appear before authorities.
Case to proceed with pre-trial directions
The court scheduled the matter for mention on a later date to allow pre-trial preparations.
Both parties are expected to continue discussions as reconciliation efforts between the directors continue.
The case will determine whether the prosecution can prove the allegations surrounding the disputed company documents and leadership changes at Ranalo Foods.
