Machakos Senator Johnstone Muthama and seven others have been charged afresh over the loss of Sh179 million in the Malili ranch sale.
The others include former Information PS Bitange Ndemo, former Commissioner of Lands Zablon Mabea, Julius Kilonzo and Julius Mbau.
They pleaded afresh yesterday after their case was consolidated with that of David Ngilai, James Munguti and Leonard Kutua, who are facing similar charges.
The case will now commence hearing on March 1.
The defence, through lawyer John Khaminwa, opposed to the case being prosecuted by state counsels Duncan Ondimu and Daniel Karuri, saying they are unfit to handle the case.
The two state counsels said they are representing the Director of Public Prosecutions Keriako Tobiko and have been duly instructed to prosecute the case.
Principal magistrate Florence Macharia ruled that the prosecution is well-placed, thus, the accused should be charged afresh and the matter be consolidated.
Muthama is accused of stealing Sh179 million proceeds of 5,000 acres sold to the government, property that once belonged to individual shareholders of Malili ranch.
He allegedly committed the offence between June 17, 2009, and January 11, 2010, in Machakos.
Ndemo is accused of abuse of office and violating procurement laws.
