High Court has condemned Joseph ‘Jowie’ Irungu to death for the brutal murder of businesswoman Monica Kimani.
Advocated by both the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and the bereaved family of Monica Kimani, the court was urged to mete out the ultimate penalty upon Jowie, who was found culpable of the heinous crime.
During the sentencing proceedings held at the Milimani Law Court, Justice Grace Nzioka underscored the gravity of the prosecution’s case, which fervently implored the court to impose the death sentence, considering the irreparable harm inflicted upon the victim’s family.
Justice Nzioka emphasized the poignant plea made by the prosecution, citing the precedent of the Francis Muruatetu case of 2015. Despite the precedent’s acknowledgment that the mandatory nature of the death sentence is unconstitutional, the prosecution asserted that the death penalty itself remains constitutional, inviting the court to invoke this severe punishment.
Echoing the sentiments of the prosecution, Justice Nzioka acknowledged the heartfelt plea of Monica’s family, who beseeched the court to administer the death penalty upon Jowie. Pointing to Section 204 of the legal code, which mandates death as the punishment for murder convictions, the family stressed the gravity of the offense and Jowie’s central role in its commission.
The family’s submission elucidated the profound impact of Monica’s murder, deeming it a cold-blooded and barbaric act intended to conceal the crime’s trail. They emphasized the irreversible economic loss suffered due to Monica’s demise, as her role in managing a business in South Sudan was pivotal to the family’s livelihood.
In delivering the verdict, Justice Nzioka emphasized Jowie’s lack of eligibility for rehabilitation, given the premeditated and merciless nature of the crime. She underscored that the murder exhibited intentional planning and execution, devoid of any mitigating circumstances such as self-defense or provocation.
The ruling marks the culmination of a lengthy legal process initiated following Monica Kimani’s tragic death on September 19, 2018. On February 9, 2024, the court pronounced Jowie guilty of murder, while his co-accused Jacque Maribe was acquitted of all charges.
