Former Sports Cabinet Secretary Echesa’s arrest for his alleged involvement in an extortion ring targeting Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa is just the latest chapter in a long and complex legal saga that has surrounded him. This latest development comes hot on the heels of another case where a man was charged with extorting a substantial amount of money from the same governor. Rashid Echesa, who is already embroiled in a separate fake arms deal case, seems to have a history of legal troubles that continue to escalate.
It is worth noting that Echesa was previously acquitted in a case related to the fake arms deal. However, the High Court overturned the decision and directed the accused persons, including Echesa, to appear before the magistrate for defense hearing. The Director of Public Prosecutions appealed against the acquittal and the High Court judge found that a prima facie case had been established against Rashid Echesa and the other accused persons for conspiracy to commit a felony. This ongoing legal battle adds to Echesa’s troubles and raises questions about his character and potential involvement in criminal activities.
In the recent accusations of extortion targeting Governor Barasa, Echesa’s alleged role in the scheme has once again put him in the spotlight. The charge sheet states that Echesa, along with others, conspired to commit a felony by demanding and extorting a large sum of money from the governor. This alleged criminal behavior, if proven true, would further tarnish Echesa’s reputation and raise concerns about his ethics and integrity.
Moreover, Echesa’s repeated failure to appear in court, reportedly due to ill health, also raises suspicions. His excuses for not attending court sessions have resulted in delays and complications in the legal proceedings. This pattern of behavior, coupled with the serious charges against him, suggests a lack of respect for the judicial process and a disregard for the rule of law.
