Meru Governor Mutuma testifies in blogger Sniper murder case

Meru Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia on Thursday appeared in court to testify in the ongoing case of the late blogger Sniper, a local activist and youth leader whose death sparked public outrage.

The Governor’s decision to take the stand personally, rather than sending a representative, drew attention from across the political divide, with many describing it as an unusual move for a sitting county chief.

Sniper, real name Daniel Muthiani, was murdered over two years ago, and was buried in August this year at his home in Kabuitu, Igembe East Ward, Igembe Central Constituency.

He went missing in Meru town on December 2, 2023, before his body was found weeks later on the banks of the Mutonga River in Tharaka Nithi County.

A post-mortem carried out by government pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor revealed that Sniper had been tortured to death and that he died of strangulation.

His death triggered calls for a transparent probe and accountability from both the public and rights groups.

In court, Governor Mutuma confirmed that he was close to the deceased and had promised to support the family’s quest for justice.

Meru residents commended the Governor’s cooperation with investigators, describing his action as “a show of commitment to truth and justice.”

Local leaders and members of the public who attended the hearing welcomed the Governor’s move, saying it signaled renewed confidence in the justice process.

“This is not just a legal act — it is a powerful statement of loyalty, truth, and justice. At a time when many would choose silence, Mutuma has chosen to stand tall, shoulder to shoulder with the memory of his fallen friend, reminding us that true leadership means standing up, even when it’s hard,” they said in a statement.