Matara appeared before Alexander Muteti at the Milimani High Court in Nairobi, where the court determined that the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence to place him on his defence in the murder case.
The ruling marks a significant development in a case that has continued to attract national attention since Scarlet Wahu’s death shocked the country and sparked widespread public outrage over violence against women.
During the proceedings, Justice Muteti stated that the evidence presented by the prosecution established a prima facie case against Matara, meaning the accused must now respond to the allegations levelled against him before the court can make a final determination.
Matara, who has consistently denied involvement in the killing, followed the proceedings quietly as the judge delivered the ruling. The court is expected to provide directions on the defence hearing and the next phase of the trial.
Scarlet Wahu’s death became one of the most closely followed criminal cases in Kenya after investigators linked the suspect to the events surrounding her disappearance and subsequent death.
Prosecutors told the court they had assembled witness testimonies, forensic findings and other evidence they believe directly connect Matara to the murder.
The prosecution closed its case after calling several witnesses who testified over the course of the trial.
Their evidence focused on the final moments before Wahu’s death, the movements of the accused and findings gathered during investigations.
Justice Muteti noted that the court was not making a final judgment on guilt or innocence at this stage, but only determining whether the evidence presented met the legal threshold required for the accused to be placed on his defence.
Legal experts say such a ruling means the court believes the prosecution has established enough grounds that would warrant an explanation from the accused person if the case were left unanswered.
The defence team is now expected to decide whether Matara will give sworn testimony, make an unsworn statement or remain silent as allowed under the law. He may also choose to call witnesses in his defence.