UK Defence Secretary John Healey met with the family of Agnes Wanjiru, a Kenyan woman whose tragic death has remained unresolved for over 13 years. Wanjiru, who was allegedly murdered by a British soldier in Nanyuki in 2012, was found months later in a hotel septic tank. The case has haunted her family, as they continue to seek justice for her untimely death.
In the meeting, Healey reaffirmed the UK government’s commitment to assisting Kenyan authorities in the investigation. He acknowledged the length of time that has passed since Wanjiru’s death and expressed his determination to see the case brought to a resolution. “We will continue to offer our full support to the Kenyan investigatory authorities,” Healey said, noting that the cooperation included sending Kenyan investigators to the UK to interview witnesses.
The Defence Secretary also shared his plans to meet with Kenyan President William Ruto later in the day to discuss ways to accelerate the progress of the murder inquest. “Our Government will continue to do everything we can to help the family secure the justice they deserve,” Healey added.
For the Wanjiru family, the meeting marked a glimmer of hope after years of frustration. Despite a 2019 Kenyan inquest that concluded Wanjiru was murdered by British soldiers, the case has made little headway. The family expressed their gratitude for Healey’s attention but stressed that they had been waiting for justice for far too long. “We hope that our meeting with the Secretary of State marks the beginning of the UK government and Ministry of Defence taking decisive action,” they stated, urging both the UK and Kenyan governments to ensure that the crime is thoroughly investigated.
As the case continues to unfold, Wanjiru’s family remains hopeful that justice will finally be served, bringing closure to a painful chapter that has lingered for over a decade.
