UK Defence Chief Meets Wanjiru Family, Vows Justice Support

• Apr 07, 2025

UK Defence Secretary John Healey on Monday met the family of Agnes Wanjiru in Nairobi, reaffirming his government’s commitment to ensuring justice is served in her long-standing murder case.

This was the first time a UK government minister has met with Wanjiru’s family since her death in 2012. Wanjiru, a Kenyan woman, was allegedly murdered by British soldiers stationed in Nanyuki, a case that has remained unresolved for over a decade. Healey described the meeting as “deeply humbling” and praised the family's resilience throughout the years.

“In the 13 years since her death, they have shown such strength in their long fight for justice,” said Healey, who reiterated the UK’s support in helping uncover the truth behind the incident.

According to the UK Ministry of Defence, this meeting fulfilled a promise Healey made shortly after taking office. It also highlights the growing pressure on both the British and Kenyan governments to resolve a case that has dragged on despite previous commitments.

Healey stated that the UK will continue offering “full support” to Kenyan investigators. He noted that this assistance has included trips by Kenyan officers to the UK to interview witnesses, as well as the deployment of the UK’s Provost Marshal for Serious Crime to Kenya to aid investigations.

He also pledged to push for faster progress in the case during his meeting with President William Ruto, scheduled for later the same day. “Our government will continue to do everything we can to help the family secure the justice they deserve,” he said.

Despite the pledges, Wanjiru’s family remains frustrated by what they described as years of delays and unfulfilled promises. A Kenyan inquest held six years ago concluded that Wanjiru was indeed murdered by British soldiers, yet no one has been held accountable.

In their statement following the meeting, the family thanked Healey for taking the time to speak with them but urged both governments to take decisive action. “We hope this marks the beginning of the UK Government and Ministry of Defence taking proper steps to ensure justice—not just for Agnes, but to prevent similar cases in the future,” the statement read.

The family’s call for swift action underscores the growing demand for accountability in a case that has symbolised broader concerns about justice for victims of foreign military personnel.