Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu’s name surfaced in court during the ongoing inquest into the death of Jeff Mwathi at the Milimani Law Courts. The development came during the cross-examination of Mugithi artiste Samuel Muchoki, popularly known as Samidoh, who is a key witness in the case.
While questioning Samidoh, defence lawyer Duncan Okatch, representing DJ Fatxo, suggested that the singer only began raising concerns about the case after Senator Nyamu publicly commented on it following Mwathi’s burial. The lawyer remarked that Nyamu, allegedly close to Samidoh at the time, played a major role in bringing renewed public attention to the matter.
Samidoh appeared taken aback by the reference to Nyamu as his girlfriend and sought clarification. The lawyer later apologised, explaining that he had been informed the two shared a close relationship. He added that it was up to Samidoh to confirm or deny the nature of their connection.
The court heard that no major issues arose during Mwathi’s burial, but weeks later, social media became flooded with theories about the cause of death. This was referenced in an affidavit by Corporal Philip Kilonzo, which mentioned online claims that the deceased had been sexually assaulted before his death. These allegations ultimately led to the exhumation of Mwathi’s body for a second autopsy.
During the exchange, the lawyer pressed Samidoh to define the nature of his relationship with Nyamu. Samidoh responded, “Probably more than a friend,” a statement the lawyer noted with interest. It was revealed that Nyamu had been vocal on social media about her own views on the circumstances surrounding Mwathi’s death.
Samidoh, however, maintained that many people, not just Nyamu, had publicly discussed the case. He also confirmed that the second autopsy conducted at the family’s request found no evidence of sexual assault.
The inquest continues to examine witness testimony and evidence surrounding Mwathi’s death, which has remained the subject of intense public debate. The mention of Nyamu’s involvement adds another layer of intrigue to the proceedings, highlighting the role social media commentary has played in shaping public perception of the case.
