Salome Wanjiru, a middle-aged woman accused of fatally stabbing her boyfriend, Conrad Nyabuto, 27 times, has pleaded not guilty to murder charges. Appearing before Justice Florence Muchemi at the Thika Law Courts on Monday, Wanjiru was released on a bond of Ksh.300,000 to facilitate 30 days of medical treatment.
Wanjiru, who had bandages on her hand, informed the court through her defense team that she was unwell and required medical attention. This marked the second instance of Wanjiru failing to take her plea due to health reasons. Earlier, on January 16, her defense had informed the court that she was undergoing a medical procedure that had not been completed.
Justice Muchemi directed that Wanjiru be taken to the Kenyatta University Teaching, Research, and Referral Hospital for a comprehensive medical evaluation. Upon the expiration of the 30-day period, she will be remanded at Lang’ata Women’s Prison pending the hearing and determination of her bail application.
The case has attracted significant public attention due to its grisly nature. Nyabuto’s lifeless body was discovered in his rented residence in Kamakis, Ruiru, in mid-December 2024. Initial investigations indicated that the victim had been stabbed multiple times, with the attack allegedly occurring during a domestic altercation.
Following the discovery, Wanjiru was arrested and detained at Ruiru Police Station. Authorities have been conducting further investigations into the circumstances surrounding Nyabuto’s death. The court’s decision to release Wanjiru on bond was met with mixed reactions, as the prosecution had opposed the move, citing the severity of the crime.
Justice Muchemi, however, emphasized that the bond was granted to allow Wanjiru access to treatment, noting the importance of due process and the accused’s right to medical care. She underscored that the bond conditions would not undermine the judicial process.
As the case proceeds, Wanjiru’s legal team is expected to present its defense against the murder charges, while the prosecution is set to lay out its evidence. The trial is likely to hinge on forensic findings, witness testimonies, and any potential motive for the alleged act.
The tragedy has sparked conversations about domestic violence and its repercussions, with calls for increased public awareness and support for those in volatile relationships.
