NAIROBI, Kenya, Feb 20 — The Anti-Corruption Court in Nairobi will proceed with the hearing of a graft case against former Migori Governor Okoth Obado from where the prevail trial magistrate left.
Magistrate Victor Wakumile on Monday ruled that he will continue with the trial from where Chief Magistrate Lawrence Mugambi left following his promotion to the High Court.
Wakumile noted one witness — an investigating officer — had already testified in the matter involving the loss of Sh73 million from county coffers.
He noted that the accused persons were sufficiently represented hence the matter cannot be restarted.
Wakumile pointed out that Obado and co-accused persons were charged in 2020 and the matter had dragged noting a fresh start will further delay the hearing and determination of the matter.
He also observed that a total of forty-eight prosecution witnesses were yet to present their evidence even as he committed to expedite the hearing.
Wakumile directed that the proceedings from previous trial be typed and be supplied to both prosecution and defense teams ahead of a status hearing on March 25.
Obado was charged alongside his children Dan Okoth, Scarlet Okoth, Jerry Okoth and Evelyne Okoth.
Others charged are Jared Kwaga, Joram Opala and Patroba Ochanda.
The eight face charges ranging from conspiracy to commit economic crimes, conflict of interest, unlawful acquisition of public property and money laundering.
