30-year jail term for Isiolo activist killer well-deserved, says HRDCE

By Dennis Dibondo

Human Rights Defenders Coalition Executive (HRDCE) Director Kamau Ngugi welcomes the jailing of the murderer of Isiolo human rights activist.

Patrick Naweet a security officer was found guilty on Thursday with the murder of activist Elizabeth Ekaru on January 3, 2022.

High Court Judge Edward Murithi sentenced her to 30 years in prison. Naweet and Ekaru were both relatives and neighbours.

Both had attended the burial of their neighbour on the day she was killed. Naweet lured her to where they had disputed before stabbing her several times.

Meru High Court Presiding Judge Edward Murithi found Patrick Naweet guilty of murder of Ekaru contrary to section 203 and 204 of the penal code.

"Pursuant to section 333 (2) of the criminal procedure code, the sentence of 30 years shall commence on 17 January of 2022 the date when he was arraigned in court," Murithi said.

Ngugi hailed the judgement as a landmark that reinforces the importance of accountability and the rule of law.

"The conviction of Patrick, who was not remorseful over the heinous act assures Kenyans that we have a functioning legal system with capacity to protect those aggrevated and seeking justice," Ngugi said in a press statement.

He said the conviction sends a clear message that violence against women and human right defenders is abohorent, and perpetrators can not hide behind culture and must be held accountable.

Ngugi said although Ekaru's case has been successful, there are other women human rights defenders that remain investigated investigated including Joannah Stutchbury,Esther Mwikali and Carol Mwatha among others.

Isiolo Gender Watch Coordinator Ms Grace Lolim welcomed the court verdict as deserved justice for Ekaru.

"Elizabeth was a dedicated advocate and beacon of hope for many women in the community.The verdict cannot bring her back but it is a significant step in holding those responsible accountable for their actions," Lolim said.

Brian Ekwam, son of the late Ekaru said they finally got justice for their late mother.

"While no justice can heal the pain of loosing her,knowing that the person responsible will be accountable brings some solace to our family.My mother was dedicated to help others and her absence has left a void that can never be filled," Ekwam said in a statement.

Defenders coalition played behind the scenes to ensure the killed activist got justice.

The case that lasted three years came to a conclusion on Thursday.

Defenders Coalition a human rights NGO did all they could to ensure killed human rights activist got justice.

Immediately after Ekaru a prominent human rights activist in Isiolo. She was a staunch advocate for women rights a champion of peace,environment, and land rights.

She event received Head of State Commendation (HSC)for her exemplary work.

When she was killed, the Defenders Coalition Coalition picked the case and even hired a counsel Zainab Kombo for the family.

They also mobilised Ekaru friends who donned T shirts and ensued key witnesses did not miss court.

Apart from that, journalists were also made aware of the case, "and we're briefed and updated regularly and were able to attend several proceedings."

At one time, even Judge Murithi noticed how the case was followed by the press.

"I want to welcome members of fourth estate since this case is of great public interest," Murithi said during one of the hearings.