A Multimedia University student accused of murdering his girlfriend has been ruled mentally unfit to stand trial, pending a second psychiatric evaluation ordered by the High Court.
Eric Mutinda, a first-year electrical engineering student, is facing a murder charge in connection with the death of Sylvia Kemunto. Kemunto, also a first-year student studying mass communication and computer science, was reported missing on March 30, 2025. Her body was discovered three days later, hidden inside a water tank on the rooftop of a university hostel, sparking shock and outrage among students and the public.
Mutinda appeared before Justice Diana Kavedza at the Kibera High Court, where a psychiatric report from Mathare National Teaching and Referral Hospital found him mentally unstable. The report described him as “fairly groomed and minimally cooperative,” but noted that his statements during assessment were inconsistent and unreliable.
“He is not fit to plead,” read a portion of the official report presented to the court.
Justice Kavedza expressed concern over Mutinda’s court appearance without any family members. She noted that the absence of a relative hindered the depth of the initial mental health evaluation. The judge then directed that Mutinda be taken back to Mathare Hospital for a new psychiatric assessment, and ordered the Prisons Department to ensure that a relative accompanies him. The family member is expected to help doctors by providing crucial background information.
Although Mutinda had earlier denied the murder charge, he acknowledged understanding the accusations against him. The court, however, cannot proceed with the trial until a full assessment confirms whether he is mentally fit to stand trial.
The case is set for mention on Friday, June 27, 2025. On that date, the court expects to receive an updated mental health report and will issue further instructions depending on the findings.
The tragic death of Sylvia Kemunto and the subsequent legal proceedings have raised deep concern within the university community and the broader public, with many now awaiting the court’s next steps.
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