This archive report was first published on 17 July 2019.
Published on July 17, 2019
Willie Kimani's murder trial took a dramatic turn on Tuesday when one of the accused, Peter Ngugi Kamau, announced that he no longer wanted to be represented by his lawyer, Neilias Kinyori.
Ngugi Kamau cited a desire to be represented by a male advocate, claiming that he could not afford to hire one and therefore needed government assistance.
However, Kinyori, who has been representing Ngugi Kamau pro bono, disputed his client's demands, stating that they were against the law.
"I have given my best and represented my client well, but if he wishes to be represented by another lawyer, it is his right," Kinyori said.
Meanwhile, lawyer Cliff Ombeta, who represents three police officers in the case, remains unwell and has been ordered to rest by his doctor.
The prosecution has expressed concerns that Ombeta's absence is part of a larger plan to delay the case, which has reached a crucial stage.
The trial has been adjourned twice in the past week due to Ombeta's absence, and the prosecution has noted that his absence is inconveniencing other parties and hindering the expeditious conclusion of the case.
The court is set to hear a video recording of Ngugi Kamau's confession, in which he details how Willie Kimani and the other two victims were arrested, tortured, and killed in 2016.
