Lawyer Kimani murder case fails to proceed
The trial of four police officers and an informer charged with the murder of lawyer Willie Kimani and two others hit a snag yesterday after one of the accused persons asked for an adjournment, saying she was unwell.
Sylvia Wanjiku, through her lawyer Katwa Kigen, told the court she was admitted at Kenyatta National Hospital from November 14 to 19 after major surgery and was yet to heal.
Wanjiku is charged alongside three other police officers: Fredrick ole Leliman, Stephen Cheburet, and Leonard Mwangi, and police informer Peter Ngugi with the murder of lawyer Willie Kimani, his client—a boda boda operator, Josephat Mwendwa—and taxi driver Joseph Muiruri.
The accused allegedly abducted the three as they exited Mavoko Law Courts on June 23, 2016. Bodies of the three were later found in Oldonyo Sabuk River, days after they were reported missing.
The court heard yesterday that Wanjiku was discharged on November 19 and brought to court yesterday and it was, therefore, difficult for her to participate in court proceedings.
Allow adjournment
“She is ready to proceed after three weeks,” Katwa told the court.
Lady Justice Jessie Lesiit granted the adjournment, saying Wanjiku’s health should be considered.
“As much as the court wants this case concluded soon, the court allows the adjournment,” she ruled.
Justice Lesiit warned against further delays and put Leliman and Cheburet on notice since their lawyer Cliff Ombeta was not in court.
“Next time the case comes for hearing, you should be able to proceed with hearing no matter what,” she said.
The case will proceed for hearing on February 24, 25, 26, and 27 next year.
