The high-profile murder trial of Meru blogger Daniel Muthiani, popularly known as Sniper, is set to resume on February 9–11, 2026 at the Kiambu Law Courts. Former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza is expected to appear as a key witness.
The proceedings continued on Wednesday with current Meru Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia taking the stand before Justice Dorah Chepkwony. The governor testified that he knew the late blogger and had previously sent him money for insecticides, emphasizing that their communications had been largely one-sided. He also clarified that while he was acquainted with the first and second accused, he had no connections to the other suspects and was not involved in political disputes surrounding Mwangaza’s impeachment.
Earlier, State Prosecutor Augustine Gacharia raised concerns after all defense lawyers failed to appear in court without prior notice, describing it as a deliberate attempt to delay proceedings. Despite the absence of counsel, Justice Chepkwony allowed the governor to complete his testimony, which had previously been interrupted by a power outage.
The accused — Vincent Mureithi Kirimi alias Supuu, Murangiri Kenneth Guantai alias Tali, among others — have denied murdering Muthiani between December 23 and 26, 2023, at Mutonga River in Tharaka Nithi County.
The trial will continue in February, with prosecutors preparing to call additional witnesses, including former Governor Mwangaza.
