Justice Alexander Muteti gave the directive after the accused, who is facing a murder charge, failed to appear in court.
The case was presented by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), acting on behalf of the Republic.
According to the prosecution, the crime took place during the night of March 31 and April 1, 2012, at Lions Court Lodge in Nanyuki, Laikipia County.
Wanjiru, who was 21 at the time, was found dead under unclear circumstances, sparking outrage both locally and internationally.
During the court session, prosecutors explained that the accused is a citizen of the United Kingdom and is currently outside Kenya.
They requested the warrant of arrest to pave the way for his extradition so that he can stand trial.
The ODPP also assured the court that witnesses, some of whom are based in the UK, will be available to testify during the hearing.
“Although key witnesses are in the United Kingdom, they will be presented before the court at the appropriate time,” the prosecution said.
While granting the request, Justice Muteti emphasized the need to protect the credibility of the judicial process.
He directed that the names of the accused and the witnesses listed in the evidence must not be revealed by the media until further notice.
“The court is satisfied with the documents provided, and there is sufficient cause to order that the accused surrenders for trial. A warrant of arrest is hereby issued,” Justice Muteti ruled.
The latest development comes after years of public pressure for justice in Wanjiru’s case, which has often been cited as an example of delayed accountability in Kenya’s legal system.
Civil society groups and human rights defenders have repeatedly called for action, arguing that Wanjiru’s family deserves closure.
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