Fresh Twist as Machakos Governor Aspirant Is Linked to Dr. Mutiso's Murder Case
New details have emerged after a Machakos gubernatorial aspirant was accused of allegedly playing a role in the murder of clinical psychologist Dr Victoria Nthunya Mutiso, adding a dramatic political dimension to one of Kenya's most closely watched murder investigations.
The case came before the Milimani Law Courts, where Rose Mbithe Mulwa, also known as Rose Mbithe Ndetei, and her son, advocate Chris Mulwa, appeared before Magistrate Geoffrey Onsaringo.
The two were presented in court two days after Dr Mutiso was shot dead in Upper Hill, Nairobi, on July 29, 2026.
The court directed that they remain in police custody until August 3, when it will decide whether detectives should be allowed to detain them for 30 days as investigations continue.
Rose Mulwa is the former wife of Dr David Musyimi Ndetei, the slain psychologist's husband.
She previously contested the Machakos governor seat as an independent candidate during the 2022 general election but lost to Governor Wavinya Ndeti after finishing fifth.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions asked the court to grant detectives additional time, arguing that investigators were still collecting crucial evidence in the murder case.
Prosecutors said the investigation involves forensic analysis, review of CCTV footage, examination of call data records, vehicle tracking, witness interviews and analysis of exhibits recovered by police.
The prosecution further argued that the suspects could interfere with witnesses if released because they are familiar with key individuals connected to the investigation, including members of Dr Mutiso's family.
Detectives also told the court they believe the pair may have information about those responsible for the fatal shooting.
Court documents revealed that investigators are examining a long-running land dispute involving Dr Mutiso and Rose Mulwa.
The disputed property, located near the Mlolongo Weighbridge in Machakos County, is the subject of an active civil case before the High Court.
Investigators believe the dispute may be relevant to establishing a possible motive behind the killing.
Police also informed the court that before her death, Dr Mutiso had reported several threatening incidents, including one involving her stepson, Chris Mulwa, and another in which armed men on a motorcycle allegedly attempted to attack her along Ngong Road.
Defence lawyers opposed the request for continued detention, insisting the arrests were politically motivated and maintaining that the mother and son were willing to cooperate fully with investigators.
The magistrate directed that both suspects remain in custody until the court delivers its ruling on August 3.
