Eric Mutinda Philip, a first-year electrical engineering student at Multimedia University (MMU) who is accused of murdering fellow student Sylvia Kemunto, has been declared mentally unfit to stand trial, according to a report from Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital.
Mutinda, who is facing charges under Criminal Case No: E004 of 2025, underwent a psychiatric evaluation following a court order issued after his initial plea of not guilty. The findings from the assessment, submitted to the court on Monday, concluded that Mutinda is not fit to plead due to mental instability.
The medical report presented to the court noted several concerning observations. While Mutinda was said to be fairly groomed and somewhat cooperative, his speech was described as low in tone and pitch, and his responses during the evaluation were vague and inconsistent. The psychiatric team indicated that the accused had no accompanying relative to provide a corroborative history—an important element in determining his mental state.
“He is not fit to plead and recommended further corroborative history from his next of kin to complete the evaluation,” read the psychiatrist’s report.
In light of the findings, the presiding judge ordered that Mutinda be taken back to Mathari Hospital for a second, more comprehensive re-evaluation. This time, he must be accompanied by a family member who can provide additional insight into his mental health and background.
The judge emphasized the importance of a thorough and well-supported psychiatric evaluation before making any decision on whether the case will proceed to trial. The court is now awaiting the updated medical report, which is expected to be presented during the next mention of the case on Friday, June 27.
Background of the Case
Eric Mutinda was arrested in connection with the death of Sylvia Kemunto, a first-year student pursuing a double major in mass communications and computer science at MMU. Her body was discovered on April 2, 2025, inside a water tank located on the rooftop of a student hostel within the university premises.
Kemunto had been reported missing on March 30, under circumstances that puzzled both her friends and the university community. A police search was launched after her disappearance, leading to the grim discovery that shocked the nation and intensified calls for enhanced campus safety and mental health awareness.
According to preliminary investigations, Mutinda was believed to be the last person seen with Kemunto before she went missing. His arrest shortly followed the discovery of the body, and he was charged with her murder soon after.
The accused initially appeared in court earlier this year where he denied the murder charges. It was after this plea that the court directed a psychiatric evaluation to ascertain his ability to participate in trial proceedings.
Legal and Public Reactions
The case has sparked widespread discussion on social media and among student communities across the country, with many calling for justice for Sylvia Kemunto and demanding transparency in the legal process.
Mental health experts have also weighed in, emphasizing the delicate balance courts must maintain between ensuring justice for victims and recognizing legitimate mental health concerns among accused individuals.
Legal analysts note that if the second evaluation confirms that Mutinda is unfit to stand trial, the court could order his admission into a mental health facility for further observation and treatment, potentially delaying the judicial process indefinitely.
The court’s next steps will heavily depend on the results of the re-evaluation from Mathari Hospital, particularly after the inclusion of a family member’s perspective.
As the MMU community continues to mourn the loss of one of its own, the country watches closely to see how the justice system will navigate this complex and emotionally charged case.
