The High Court in Nairobi has set September 29, 2026, for five suspects accused of murdering Dr Victoria Nthunya Mutiso to take plea.

Justice Alexander Muteti directed that the accused persons be physically presented in court at noon following a request by their lawyers.

The five – Rose Mbithe Mulwa alias Rose Mbithe Ndetei, Chris Mulwa, Angela Mulwa, Elijah Kibellion Kimoi and Maritim Kimutai alias Kim – are accused of jointly killing Dr Mutiso on July 29, 2026.

According to the prosecution, the killing occurred at about 9.30am along Mawensi Road in Kilimani Sub-County, Nairobi. The five are alleged to have acted together with others who are yet to be brought before court.

During Wednesday’s proceedings, defence lawyers led by Danstan Omari and Cliff Ombeta asked the court to allow their clients to attend the plea-taking session physically rather than virtually.

The court heard that an earlier order had directed the suspects to appear virtually, but Rose Mbithe, who is being held at Lang’ata Women Prison, and her daughter had declined to participate online.

Justice Muteti reminded the defence that existing court orders must be complied with unless formally varied.

Omari clarified that the defence was not challenging the earlier order, saying the lawyers wanted to meet their clients physically and obtain detailed instructions before plea-taking.

He said the consultations would help establish whether the accused intended to plead guilty or not guilty, or consider a plea-bargaining arrangement.

The defence lawyers later apologized to the court following the clarification.

Justice Muteti subsequently directed that all five suspects be produced physically before the High Court on September 29 at noon to take plea.

The court also addressed the custody of Maritim Kimutai alias Kim, who was being held at Industrial Area Police Station.

Prosecution counsel Jalson Makori asked the court to have him transferred to remand custody pending the plea hearing.

The court directed that Kimutai be held at Industrial Area Remand Prison ahead of his September 29 appearance.

The five suspects have not yet pleaded to the murder charge, and the allegations against them remain subject to determination by the court.

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