Nairobi

A Nairobi magistrate has ordered the government pathologist, Dr Peter Ndegwa, to appear in person and give evidence in the ongoing inquest into the death of 23-year-old interior designer Jeff Mwathi.

Milimani Principal Magistrate Rose Ndombi said Dr Ndegwa’s testimony, along with that of two other doctors who conducted post-mortem examinations, was essential given the public interest in the case. Mwathi died in February 2024 after allegedly being thrown from a building in Kasarani.

The directive followed submissions by lawyer Duncan Okatch, who represents popular musician Lawrence Njuguna, known as DJ Fatxo. Okatch argued that Dr Ndegwa’s testimony carried special weight because he was the first pathologist to examine Mwathi’s body.

“The findings of this particular doctor and the exercise he conducted are very, very crucial not only to my client but also to other parties and, more importantly, to the family. They had questions, and they feel that this doctor should come physically and support his report,” Okatch told the court.

He noted that while a second post-mortem had been carried out, decomposition of the body had made those results inconclusive.

The court also heard that Dr Ndegwa had not provided any explanation for his absence, despite earlier directions requiring him to attend in person.

Magistrate Ndombi adjourned proceedings, saying the matter could not continue without the pathologist’s testimony. She directed Dr Ndegwa to appear on 21 October.

The inquest into Mwathi’s death has gripped national attention, with family members and supporters pressing for answers. It remains one of the most closely watched legal proceedings in Nairobi this year.