In a heart-wrenching plea, the mother of the late businesswoman Monica Kimani has urged the court to deliver the ultimate justice by sentencing her daughter's murderer, Jowie Irungu, to death.
Monica's family is still grappling with the horror of her brutal murder, which shook the nation when her lifeless body was discovered at her residence in Lamuria Gardens, Kilimani, on September 19, 2018, with her throat slit and hands bound.
Following Jowie's conviction for the murder last month, Monica's family awaits his sentencing on Wednesday, with hopes that justice will prevail. While Jowie's co-accused, Jaques Maribe, was acquitted due to insufficient evidence against her, the family remains steadfast in seeking justice for Monica.
In a poignant pre-sentencing report, Monica's mother passionately implores the court to impose the death penalty, emphasizing that it is only fitting for one who snuffs out a life in such a cruel manner to face a similar fate.
During an interview with probation officer Andrew Kanyutu, Monica's mother experienced an emotional breakdown, expressing her anguish through inconsolable wails, reflecting the profound impact of Monica's tragic demise on her.
The report reveals the mother's ongoing struggle to comprehend the circumstances surrounding her daughter's untimely death, questioning why Monica, known for her peaceful nature and hardworking ethic, met such a cruel fate.
Monica's father, Bishop Paul Ngarama, echoes his wife's sentiments, citing biblical scripture to underscore the principle that the wicked must face consequences for their actions.
Meanwhile, Monica's younger brother, George Kimani, reiterates his conviction in Jowie's guilt, describing him as deceptive, violent, and manipulative.
Despite the family's impassioned plea for justice, Jowie maintains his innocence and pleads for leniency, expressing shock and depression over being implicated in the murder.
As the court prepares to deliver its verdict, both Monica's family and Jowie's family grapple with their respective realities. While Jowie's family continues to stand by him, they express empathy for the victim's family and hope for divine intervention to reveal the true perpetrator of the crime.
The probation officer's findings paint a complex picture of Jowie, highlighting his dual personality traits and risk factors, urging the court to consider all aspects of the case in its sentencing.
Amidst the emotional turmoil and legal proceedings, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) urges the court to impose the death penalty, underscoring the gravity of the offense and the need for justice to be served.