The quest for justice in the murder of outspoken Meru blogger Daniel ‘Sniper’ Muthiani is poised to enter a critical phase, with former Governor Kawira Mwangaza slated to testify as a key prosecution witness in the coming year.

This development places the county's former top leadership at the heart of a case that has rattled Meru's political landscape and raised urgent questions about the safety of government critics. The trial, which has gripped the nation, now hinges on testimony that could illuminate the final, fatal hours of the blogger's life.

Daniel Muthiani, a fierce online critic of the then-county government, was abducted on December 2, 2023. His body was discovered weeks later in the Mutonga River, showing signs of torture and strangulation, according to a post-mortem report by chief government pathologist Johansen Oduor.

A Governor in the Witness Box

The Kiambu High Court has scheduled new hearing dates for February 9th, 10th, and 11th, when the prosecution is expected to call the former governor to the stand. Her testimony is anticipated to be a focal point of the trial, given that one of the primary suspects, Murangiri Kenneth Guantai, is her brother.

Guantai, alongside Vincent Mureithi Kirimi, has been charged with the murder of Muthiani. Both have pleaded not guilty. The prosecution alleges that Muthiani was lured to his death by individuals known to him.

The current Meru Governor, Mutuma M'Ethingia, has already given his testimony before Justice Dorah Chepkwony, where he recounted his interactions with the late blogger. The proceedings have faced delays, which State Prosecutor Augustine Gacharia noted were a concern after defence lawyers failed to appear at a recent session.

The Weight of Justice for Meru

For the residents of Meru, this trial is more than a legal battle; it is a test of the rule of law and political accountability. Muthiani's death has been a source of significant tension and was even cited during the impeachment proceedings against Mwangaza, highlighting the deep political currents running through the case.

Key details of the case include:

• The Victim: Daniel Muthiani, a blogger known for his sharp political commentary in Meru.
• The Crime: Abducted and murdered in December 2023, with his body disposed of in a river in neighbouring Tharaka Nithi County.
• The Accused: At least two key suspects, including a close relative of the former governor, are facing murder charges.
• The Court: The trial is being held at the Kiambu High Court to ensure impartiality.

While Mwangaza has previously alleged the investigation was a political witch hunt, her appearance as a witness for the prosecution marks a pivotal moment. As the court prepares for the February hearings, all eyes will be on the witness box, waiting for testimony that could either untangle a complex conspiracy or deepen the mystery surrounding Sniper’s death.