Abedinecho Kyalo Katue, the Kibwezi-born nurse whose arrest in the United States sparked widespread debate among Kenyans online, has reportedly been released from jail.
The update was shared by his ex-wife Rebecca Samuel, who thanked supporters who had contributed financially and prayed for him during the ordeal.
In a message shared online about an hour after his release, Rebecca said Katue was now home and doing well.
“Abed is out of jail and he is doing good. He appreciates your prayers. Thank you all for extending your grace and concern for him… so far he is home,” she wrote.
She also thanked several individuals she said had stood by Katue through the night, including diaspora supporters and friends who had been following developments closely.
Dispute Over Fundraising
However, even as news of Katue’s release spread, fresh controversy erupted online over how funds raised to support his legal battle were handled.
Rebecca publicly questioned the role of some individuals who had been involved in fundraising efforts for Katue’s case, alleging that an immigration lawyer who does not practice in Florida had been paid to represent him.
In her remarks, she challenged gospel singer Stella Mengele and another fundraiser, Liz Muli, to provide documentation showing how the money contributed by Kenyans had been used.
Rebecca also claimed Katue’s release had been delayed despite supporters raising funds meant to secure his bond.
“Kenyans that contributed need to demand an invoice detailing what this lawyer did for this case,” she wrote, urging donors to seek accountability.
Online Drama Escalates
The controversy deepened further after US-based Kenyan blogger Frank Neva also weighed in, making strong claims on social media regarding the handling of the funds.
Neva accused singer Stella Mengele of misleading the public about her contribution and questioned her role in the fundraising campaign.
His remarks quickly sparked heated exchanges online, with supporters of the different individuals trading accusations and defending their positions.
Case That Sparked Diaspora Debate
Katue, a 46-year-old nurse who previously worked at AdventHealth in Orlando, was arrested after allegations surfaced that he sexually assaulted a vulnerable hospital patient.
The case was first reported by WFTV Channel 9, and it quickly drew widespread attention among Kenyans both in the diaspora and back home in Ukambani.
Supporters had earlier raised thousands of dollars to help secure legal representation and support his court process.
As the legal proceedings continue in the United States, the controversy surrounding the fundraising efforts has now opened a new front of debate among Kenyans online.
