Former Agriculture CS Peter Munya has been released after presenting himself in court following an arrest warrant in connection with the Sh63 billion Arror and Kimwarer dams case.
The prosecution's decision to refrain from cross-examining Munya led to his discharge from the ongoing trial, introducing a new layer of complexity to the proceedings.
Trial magistrate Eunice Nyutu informed the court that the prosecution had opted not to pose any questions to Munya.
As a result, he was promptly stood down and discharged from the case, altering the course of the legal battle.
However, the court expressed its dissatisfaction with the prosecution's handling of the case. Magistrate Nyutu reprimanded the prosecution for their repeated failure to present witnesses, even though the case was initiated back in 2021.
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Nyutu emphasized the importance of affording the accused a constitutionally mandated fair trial, highlighting the court's responsibility under the Magistrate’s Act to ensure justice is upheld.
In response to the ongoing challenges and in an effort to maintain the trial's integrity, the court reluctantly rescheduled the proceedings for September 11, 2023.
Additionally, the court issued a clear directive to the prosecution, mandating the presence of all witnesses on that specified date.
This directive underscores the court's commitment to upholding justice and fairness throughout the trial.
The case revolves around the alleged misappropriation of Sh63 billion earmarked for the construction of the Arror and Kimwarer dams.
Along with ten other individuals, former Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich is among the accused.
Given the substantial sum involved and the prominence of the accused, the case has garnered significant public attention.
The discharge of Peter Munya due to the prosecution's decision not to cross-examine him marks an important juncture in the Arror and Kimwarer dams case.
With the court's unwavering focus on a just trial, all eyes will remain fixed on the proceedings as they resume in September.