Jowie Irungu's Father Passes Away

 In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…

• Jowie Irungu, sentenced to death for Monica Kimani's murder, seeks permission to attend his father's burial after his father passed away from cancer.

• Despite his conviction, Jowie's legal team cites a High Court ruling allowing convicts to attend family funerals, emphasizing humane treatment amid ongoing legal challenges.

Joseph Irungu alias Jowie during court proceedings on February 9, 2024.

Jowie Irungu, who was sentenced to death for the murder of businesswoman Monica Kimani, is seeking permission to attend the burial of his father, Julius Irungu, who passed away on Saturday, June 15, while undergoing treatment for cancer at Nakuru Level 5 Hospital Annex. 

His widow, Annastacia Thaama, confirmed his death to the media. Despite facing murder charges, Jowie's lawyer Andrew Muge disclosed efforts to facilitate his client's attendance at the burial.

Julius Irungu, aged 64, had been battling cancer for several years, a period that coincided with his son's legal ordeal. 

During Jowie's sentencing on March 13, where he was accompanied only by his mother, his father's health condition was critical. 

Reflecting on this, Jowie's lawyer emphasized the importance of allowing Jowie to bid farewell to his father, highlighting Julius's steadfast support throughout his trial.

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In a significant ruling in February 2024, the High Court affirmed that convicted individuals have the right to attend the funerals of close family members. 

Justice Lawrence Mugambi underscored this right as rooted in humane treatment and inherent dignity, though acknowledging that exceptions could apply based on compelling reasons.

For Jowie Irungu's request to attend his father's burial, he must demonstrate that allowing his temporary release will not cause distress to those affected by his crime. 

Discussions are underway with Jowie's family regarding the funeral arrangements, aiming to lay Julius Irungu to rest in his ancestral home in Murang'a.

In March 2024, Jowie filed a notice of appeal against his conviction and death sentence, arguing that the sentence was cruel, inhuman, and violated constitutional protections against degrading punishment.