Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga has urged the judiciary to intervene and expedite the long-pending trial of the murder of Benson Njiru and Emmanuel Mutura—the Kianjakoma brothers—citing persistent delays caused by the absence of one of the accused.
The matter was brought before court on Monday, marking the first appearance of the case before the current presiding judge this year, despite being in the system for over three years.
“We will be seeking the court’s intervention so that we may proceed with this matter. We will also be looking into the cancellation of bond terms. The interest of justice is twofold—both for the accused and the victims,” the prosecution told the court.
The DPP also requested that the court issue compelling orders to ensure the attendance of all accused individuals, either in person or virtually, to avoid further delays.
The delays stem from the absence of accused officer James Mwaniki, who failed to appear in court Monday morning. His legal representative, Danstan Omari, informed the court that Mwaniki was admitted at Thika Level 5 Hospital and was unable to attend proceedings.
The defence sought an adjournment until Tuesday.
In response, the court issued three options for verification:
- The Deputy Registrar to visit Thika Hospital to confirm Mwaniki’s admission status.
- Medical documentation to be provided as evidence of his illness.
- An assessment of whether Mwaniki is fit to attend proceedings virtually.
The victims’ family expressed frustration over the recurring delays, joining the prosecution in seeking decisive action from the court.
“As the victims’ family, we are asking this court to order that he appear in court and cancel his bond terms, or even allow him to appear virtually so we can proceed,” said a family representative.
The brothers, both students, died in police custody in August 2021 under suspicious circumstances, sparking nationwide protests and condemnation over police brutality.
The officers accused of the murders were granted bail and have been out on bond pending the trial. This week’s session had been slated to run for five consecutive days.
