Joshua Irungu, popularly known as Jowie, has been found guilty of the murder of Nairobi businesswoman Monica Kimani, a case that sent shockwaves through the community in 2018.
Lady Justice Grace Nzioka delivered the verdict, highlighting crucial details that led to Jowie’s conviction.
She emphasized that the prosecution successfully demonstrated that Jowie, a security personnel, committed the heinous crime.
Despite Jowie’s initial denial of any acquaintance with the deceased, the court, relying on the testimony of Kimani’s brother and cell phone records, concluded that Jowie did know Monica Kimani before her tragic death.
According to Kimani’s brother, they spent a night at Monica’s home on August 30, 2018.
The judge stated, “The 1st accused (Jowie Irungu) claimed he did not know the deceased at all. George Kimani, the deceased’s brother submitted that Jowie and Monica Kimani were in the same class in 2002 taking the same course in hotel and beverage management.”
The court invoked the Doctrine of Last Seen, agreeing with the prosecution’s evidence that Jowie was the last person seen with Monica Kimani before her demise. This legal doctrine assumes that the person last seen with the deceased is responsible for their death, placing the onus on the accused to provide an explanation.
Justice Nzioka further concurred with the prosecution’s assertion that Jowie used a firearm to intimidate Monica Kimani before her tragic death. Forensic evidence played a crucial role, establishing that the blood stains on Jowie’s shorts belonged to the businesswoman.
The court’s reliance on testimonies, cell phone records, and forensic evidence underscores the gravity of the situation.
The second accused, journalist Jacque Maribe has been acquitted and found not guilty of the murder of Monicah Kimani.
The court dropped the offense of misleading investigators on technicality that had been leveled against Maribe.
Lady Justice Nzioka cancelled Jowie’s bond and ordered that he remains in custody until March 8, when he will be sentenced.
