Former Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Sports, Rashid Echesa, has allegedly fallen ill while in police custody, just a day after his arrest. The situation has raised concerns about his well-being and the treatment of detainees.
According to a statement released by Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale on Friday, March 29, Echesa fell sick during police interrogation and is yet to receive medical care. Khalwale, a vocal advocate for Echesa’s rights, spent the afternoon at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) headquarters, urging for Echesa’s release to seek medical attention.
“I am the Kakamega Senator and the Government Majority Whip. I come here on the capacity given to me by Kakamega County to ask the National Government to release Rashid to me,” Khalwale stated firmly.
Former CS Rashid Echesa being held by police
He further emphasized that Echesa is not a flight risk, as he serves at the pleasure of the President. Khalwale warned the Inspector General against holding a sick person in custody, citing the right to life enshrined in the Kenyan Constitution.
“Under the Constitution of Kenya, there is the right to life, and he cannot deny any Kenyan that right,” the Senator explained.
Despite Khalwale’s efforts, Echesa remains in custody. The Senator proceeded to the Muthaiga police station with the same aim, but his attempts were unsuccessful.
“I have spent the whole afternoon at DCI Headquarters in Nairobi and later at the Muthaiga Police Station trying to secure the release of Rashid Echesa. The former CS is visibly unwell,” Khalwale noted.
Rashid Echesa speaking to the presser
However, details about Echesa’s health remain undisclosed. It remains uncertain when or if he will be released for treatment.
Echesa was arrested on Thursday evening for allegedly being involved in an extortion ring targeting Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa. His lawyer, Dunstan Omari, stated that they have not been informed of the specific amount involved in the allegations. Notably, Echesa was the initial person to file a formal complaint, adding complexity to the case.
The situation continues to unfold, and concerns persist over Echesa’s health and legal rights. The Kenyan public awaits further updates on this developing story.
