Nominated Member of County Assembly Lucy Njeri Mwaniki on Wednesday, January 14, faced one of the most painful moments of her life after coming face to face with the man accused of murdering her daughter, Seth Nyakio Njeri.
The suspect, identified as Ken Kimanthi Gichunuku, also known as Sultan — who was the late Seth’s boyfriend — appeared before the Kiambu Law Courts for the first mention of the case.
A mother’s painful encounter
Hon. Lucy Njeri Mwaniki attended the court session dressed in a commando outfit and boots, while holding a large photo of her late daughter, an image that visibly moved those present in court.
She later shared her experience through a post on her Facebook page, describing the encounter as deeply traumatic.
According to the MCA, coming face to face with the man accused of taking her daughter’s life reopened emotional wounds and left her shaken.
“Seeing the man who raped and killed my daughter in court was agonizing and traumatic,” she wrote.
Court orders mental evaluation
Lucy Njeri also gave an update on the legal proceedings, revealing that the court granted a five-day mental evaluation period for the suspect.
The assessment will help determine whether Ken Kimanthi Gichunuku is mentally fit to stand trial.
She added that investigations are ongoing and that other suspects linked to the case will be arraigned in court soon.
“The judge has granted a five-day period for a mental evaluation. All other conspirators and masterminds will be arraigned soon. I will keep you updated as the process moves forward. Thank you for your prayers and support,” she stated.
What happened to Seth Nyakio Njeri?
Seth Nyakio Njeri, a 23-year-old university student, tragically lost her life in October 2024. Her lifeless body was discovered in a rental apartment in the Biafra area of Thika, on Sunday, October 20.
Initial investigations suggested foul play after marks were found around her neck, pointing to possible strangulation.
Detectives later identified Kimanthi Gichunuku as the prime suspect. He was arrested in December 2025 in Busia Town, near the Kenya–Uganda border — nearly a year after the alleged crime.
Family seeks justice
As the case moves forward, Hon. Lucy Njeri Mwaniki continues to demand justice for her daughter, vowing to follow the proceedings closely until all those involved are held accountable.
The case has drawn widespread public attention, with many Kenyans expressing sympathy and calling for a swift and transparent trial.
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