KIRINYAGA: Joy and jubilation filled Kiangothe village in Kirinyaga Central as Peter Githinji returned home after spending 13 years in prison for a crime he did not commit.

Githinji’s troubles began when his wife accused him of defiling their daughter, leading to a 20-year prison sentence.

“At first, my wife accused me of assaulting her. After I was released, she returned to court and accused me of defiling our daughter, which resulted in a 20-year sentence,” Peter recounted.

Githinji was stunned when, after appealing the sentence, the court increased his punishment to life imprisonment.

“I couldn’t believe it when I heard the new verdict. I cried out loud, knowing my life was being stolen from me,” Githinji shared.

His fortunes changed, however, when he was unexpectedly released and allowed to return home.

Peter was welcomed by his siblings, but his family was no longer intact.

“I’m told my wife disappeared as soon as I was imprisoned. My two daughters have since married, and my only son lives in a rented house at the shopping center,” Githinji sadly recounted.

The bad news didn’t end there. Upon his return, he learned that his father, Benard Kioi, had passed away while he was incarcerated, and his mother had suffered a serious injury, losing one hand while preparing hay for her livestock.

Despite the bittersweet circumstances, Githinji is determined to rebuild his life. He believes that his experience in prison has made him stronger and more resilient in the face of life’s challenges.