Joseph Irungu aka Jowie, who is charged with the murder of Nairobi businesswoman Monica Kimani, will have to battle with a text message he sent to the victim's brother.

On Tuesday Jowie was in court to renew his bail application before justice James Wakiaga.

In his application, he told the High Court judge that his circumstances had changed and that his family was willing to deposit security.

His lawyer David Ayuo said a relative had offered to house him and ensure that he attends court.

“He has close ties with his family and relatives who have shown support and are determined to walk with him throughout the trial. There is no record he ever jumped bail, and no evidence he will endanger anyone's life,” said Mr Ayuo.

State prosecutor Catherine Mwaniki was opposed to the application, saying the accused had sent a threatening message to the murder victim's brother a day before she was killed.

She added that the accused is a threat to witnesses despite their protection and because he is a firearm handler, so his application should be rejected until they all testify.

Justice Wakiaga directed Jowie to appear before Justice Jessie Lesiit on May 29 for directions on the hearing.

He will decide on the fresh bail plea on June 18.

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