British High Commissioner Meets Family of Agnes Wanjiru Amid Calls for Justice

The British High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, has met with the family of the late Agnes Wanjiru, a Kenyan woman whose tragic death in 2012 remains unresolved. This marks the second official meeting between the High Commissioner and Wanjiru’s family, following a previous discussion in May 2024.

The meeting provided an opportunity for the family to seek updates on the ongoing investigation, as well as for the UK Government to reiterate its commitment to full cooperation with Kenyan authorities. Wigan assured the family that the UK’s Defence Serious Crime Command and Unit remain engaged with Kenyan investigators, aiming to expedite the case’s resolution.

Wanjiru, then a 21-year-old mother, was last seen alive in the company of British soldiers at a hotel in Nanyuki in 2012. Her body was later discovered in a septic tank near the hotel, sparking an outcry over alleged delays in the pursuit of justice. Reports have surfaced over the years implicating British military personnel, leading to calls for increased cooperation between the UK and Kenya in bringing the perpetrators to justice.

Despite assurances from both governments, progress has been slow, fueling frustration among Wanjiru’s family and human rights activists. The renewed engagement between the British High Commissioner and the family signals continued diplomatic efforts to resolve the matter.

During the meeting, Wigan emphasized that both the UK and Kenya are actively working together to accelerate the investigation. Attendees included the family’s legal representative, Mbiyu Kamau, and James Mwangi from the African Centre for Corrective and Preventive Action.

The UK Government has expressed a willingness to provide any necessary assistance to ensure justice is served. However, human rights organizations continue to urge greater transparency and accountability in handling the case.

As the family of Wanjiru continues their painful wait for justice, the spotlight remains on the Kenyan authorities and their British counterparts to deliver long-overdue answers.