Lawyers advocating for the release of former Cabinet Secretary Rashid Echesa have formally appealed to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to facilitate his release from police custody, citing urgent medical needs.
In a letter addressed to DCI boss Mohamed Amin dated March 29, attorney Danstan Omari highlighted Echesa’s pressing health concerns, stating that he requires immediate medical attention due to a diagnosed serious medical condition. The letter emphasized the necessity for Echesa’s prompt transfer from police custody to a medical facility for assessment and treatment in accordance with his medical records.
“Our client, while complying with lawful summons, was apprehended on March 27, 2024, on allegations of self-abduction. Subsequently, he was detained at Muthaiga Police Station for over 24 hours, a duration that contravenes our client’s rights as enshrined in the constitution,” the letter read.
Copied to the Inspector General of Police, the communication underscored the denial of Echesa’s access to his medical practitioners, family, and associates during his detention alongside his legal representative, Cliff Ombeta.
Expressing grave concerns over Echesa’s deteriorating health due to prolonged detention, Omari emphasized that prioritizing his health over any judicial proceedings related to his arrest is imperative.
The lawyer advocated for Echesa’s release on cash bail to facilitate his immediate medical attention and subsequent recovery. Asserting Echesa’s commitment to a fair legal process and cooperation with ongoing investigations, Omari emphasized his client’s standing as a prominent Kenyan citizen and former cabinet secretary, further highlighting his intention to adhere to future summons and provide necessary information to investigators.
Echesa, presently held at Muthaiga Police Station, was reportedly taken into custody from his Nairobi residence on Thursday, with subsequent movements including a transfer to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, accompanied by his legal counsel.
