Thirty-five-year-old Nicholas Julius Macharia has been sentenced to death by hanging for the 2025 killing of seven-year-old Tamara Blessing Kabura. The sentence was handed down by Justice Kizito Magare at the Nyeri High Court after the court found the murder to be deliberate and carefully planned.In his ruling, Justice Magare described the offence as premeditated and executed with complete disregard for the life of the minor. The court heard that the child was assaulted before being killed and later concealed in a shallow grave inside the accused’s residence.
The judge rejected the convict’s claim that his actions were influenced by supernatural forces, stating that criminal responsibility could not be shifted to such explanations. The court held that the evidence presented proved intent and direct involvement beyond reasonable doubt.
The sentence will take effect in 30 days should the convict fail to file an appeal. The ruling was delivered in a packed courtroom, where members of the victim’s family expressed relief, saying the judgment brought them a measure of justice after months of anguish.
The case drew significant public attention and renewed debate over capital punishment in Kenya, particularly in crimes involving minors. While Kenya has not carried out executions for decades, courts continue to impose death sentences in the most serious offences as provided for under the Penal Code.
Legal analysts note that the convict retains the right to appeal both the conviction and sentence at the Court of Appeal. Until then, the High Court’s ruling stands as one of the most severe penalties issued in recent months for a crime involving a child.
