Blogger Sniper murder: Ex-governor Mwangaza to testify as key witness

Former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza is expected to testify as a key witness.

The matter continued on Wednesday with current Meru Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia taking the stand before Justice Dorah Chepkwony. Mutuma told the court he knew the late blogger and had previously sent him money for insecticides, noting their communication had largely been one-sided.

He also clarified that while he knew the first and second accused persons, he had no links to the others and was not involved in political disputes around Mwangaza’s impeachment.

Earlier, State Prosecutor Augustine Gacharia raised concern after all defence lawyers failed to appear in court without giving any formal notice. He termed it a deliberate attempt to delay the proceedings.

Despite the absence of defence counsel, Justice Chepkwony allowed the governor to conclude his testimony, noting his earlier session had been cut short by a power outage.

The accused — Vincent Mureithi Kirimi alias Supuu, Murangiri Kenneth Guantai alias Tali, and others — have denied murdering Muthiani between December 23 and 26, 2023, at Mutonga River in Tharaka Nithi County.

The case will continue in February as the prosecution prepares to call more witnesses, including former Governor Mwangaza.