PHOTOS: Grade 8 pupil laid to rest as family demands justice

Wesley Njiru's parents Simon Njiru and Stella Nyawira lay a wreath of flowers at his grave at the Langata Cemetry in Nairobi. [Patrick Vidija, Standard]

Njiru's burial happened even as the family vowed to fight until justice is served.

The family said justice for Wesley will play a critical role in ensuring that schools provide a safe environment for learners bestowed to them.

Some of the parents from Joy Gardens Primary School view Wesley Njiru's body. [Patrick Vidija, Standard]

"Although you are no longer physically with us, your spirit lives on. You continue to inspire me to embrace life fully, even in the face of heartache," said Nyawira.

Her sentiments were echoed by Wesley's father Simon Njiru who said no parent deserves to bury their child at such a tender age.

Wesley Njiru was buried at the Langata cemetery on March 20, 2024. [Patrick Vidija, Standard]

Five suspects linked to the murder were last week released on a Sh500,000 cash bail each.

The Five Jane Kamau, James Mungai, Caroline Matheka, Antony Kimani and Vanice Bosire were directed to deposit the amount or an alternative bond of Sh300,000 each and surety of a similar amount.

Some of the parents from Joy Gardens Primary School view Wesley Njiru's body. [Patrick Vidija, Standard]

The Prosecution argued that if released, the suspects would interfere with key witnesses in the case majority being pupils and staff at the school.

"The respondents hold senior positions at the school. Two of them are directors and one a headteacher, with these positions, they are likely going to interfere with our work," the prosecution said.

Wesley Njiru's mother leads other family relatives in lighting a candle in his honour during a funeral service at St Peter's Methodist Church in Langata. [Patrick Vidija, Standard]

The deceased started his education at Rosslyn Academy in Umoja where he schooled until grade 5.

In 2022, Wesley was transferred to By Faith Academy until Grade 7 when opted to challenge himself and join a boarding school.

In January 2024, he Joined Joy Gardens for his Grade 8 studies.

He dreamt of being a pilot or an engineer if not a professional football player in his later years.