There was drama and disagreement at the Milimani High Court on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, after lawyer Ndegwa Njiru presented his client, Ashwin Shah, for a court-ordered show cause but in an ambulance.
The court was informed that the plaintiff, Ashwin Shah, was within the court premises but could not enter the courtroom as he was confined to an ambulance. Presiding Judge Lady Justice Njoki Mwangi questioned the unusual move, terming it dramatic and unnecessary.
“Why was I not told that the plaintiff would be brought in an ambulance? Is this not drama you are causing?” Justice Njoki asked.
In response, Njiru defended his actions, explaining that he had attempted to inform the court about his client’s immobility during previous proceedings but was muted during a virtual session. “I indicated that we shall bring the plaintiff in the condition he is,” Njiru said.
However, Justice Njoki dismissed the explanation, stating that Njiru never properly indicated his client’s medical condition. She recalled that she had earlier ordered both the plaintiff and an auctioneer to appear in court to answer a notice to show cause why they should not be punished for contempt.
The judge noted that Shah had failed to attend multiple hearings since October 4, 2024, despite several court orders and a warrant of arrest issued on November 22, 2024.
Justice Njoki also questioned claims that the plaintiff suffers from dementia, arguing that he has continued to file applications and swear affidavits actions inconsistent with such a diagnosis.
Since the plaintiff could not answer the notice while confined to an ambulance, the judge directed Parklands Police Station officers to produce him in court once he recovers.
“The police will produce him in court on any working day after he recovers from whatever ailment he is suffering from,” Justice Njoki ordered.
