Kibaki’s Estate Battle Deepens as Forgery Allegations and DNA Dispute Take Center Stage

The battle over former President Mwai Kibaki’s estate continues to escalate. Jacob Ocholla Mwai and JNL question the validity of Kibaki’s 2016 will, claiming the signature is forged. They seek recognition as beneficiaries, but Kibaki’s children strongly oppose their claims. Citing privacy concerns, they insist the will is authentic. The High Court will hear the case on June 26, 2025.

Ocholla insists he is Kibaki’s firstborn son and has asked the court to examine a forensic report that allegedly proves the forgery. Furthermore, he argues that the phrase “remoter issue of mine” in the will suggests the existence of other heirs. Seeking validation, he demands a share of the estate.

Meanwhile, Kibaki’s four children; Judy Wanjiku, Jimmy Kibaki, David Kagai, and Anthony Githinji, dismiss the forgery claims. They argue the report lacks credibility because it was authored by an unqualified expert. Additionally, they maintain that no evidence suggests the will was altered and emphasize that it reflects Kibaki’s true wishes.

JNL, on the other hand, is pushing for a DNA test to confirm her alleged connection to Kibaki. She says she had multiple discussions with Jimmy Kibaki about an amicable resolution. According to her, they agreed to undergo a DNA test at Lancet Kenya Clinic in Nairobi on July 5, 2023. Later, in August 2023, they met at Haandi restaurant to continue their discussions.

Despite these conversations, Jimmy Kibaki has since changed his legal team, replacing Muriu Mungai Advocates with Ashford Muriuki Advocates. His new lawyers filed an objection, arguing that both Ocholla and JNL raised their claims too late. Moreover, they insist that neither qualifies for a court-ordered DNA test.

As the legal battle intensifies, Ocholla and JNL remain firm in their pursuit of recognition and inheritance. However, Kibaki’s children continue to reject their claims. They dismiss the forgery allegations and oppose the DNA test request. Once open to discussions, Jimmy Kibaki now formally objects.