Gachagua Seeks Postponement of Impeachment Trial Due to Health Issues.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has formally requested Senate Speaker Amason Kingi for a delay in his impeachment trial, seeking an extension of five days to take the witness stand. His lead counsel, Paul Muite, emphasized the critical need for Gachagua to have a fair chance to defend himself, considering the gravity of the situation.
Muite reported that Gachagua fell ill and needed hospitalization, prompting the request to postpone the trial until Tuesday, October 22. He argues that the law mandates the Senate to provide the Deputy President with an opportunity to present his side of the story. According to Muite, the choice of language regarding his appearance must align with Article 145, which requires the Senate to give the DP an opportunity to present his side of the story.
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Muite further argued that Article 145, sub-article 6(b), does not impose a strict ten-day deadline. He asserted that, in the interest of justice—given the severe implications of removing a Deputy President from office—a few additional days for preparation would be warranted.
However, National Assembly counsel Eric Gumbo opposed this request. He argued that delaying the trial would disrupt the established timelines, which are crucial for a process bound by time constraints. Gumbo suggested that Gachagua’s counsel should proceed with the proceedings in his absence. “Gachagua has already had the chance to present all the material he wanted and to cross-examine witnesses. All that remains is highlighting the case. We can forego cross-examination and let him summarize the materials submitted before the House,” he remarked.
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Paul Muite disclosed that Deputy President Gachagua currently suffers from chest pains and received admission to Karen Hospital shortly before his scheduled appearance before the Senate. His health situation raises concerns about his ability to participate in the ongoing impeachment proceedings.
In summary, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s request for a delay in his impeachment trial centers on health issues and the need for a fair defense. While his counsel advocates for the extension, opposition from the National Assembly underscores the complexities involved in such a time-sensitive process. As the situation unfolds, the Senate will need to balance the urgency of the trial with Gachagua’s health needs.
Gachagua Seeks Postponement of Impeachment Trial Due to Health Issues.
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