The courtroom fell silent on Tuesday as cardiologist Daniel Kibuka Gikonyo stood by the medical report that has become central to Rigathi Gachagua’s legal fight over his impeachment.
Dr. Gikonyo, appearing for cross-examination, told the court that the former deputy president had shown symptoms consistent with a possible heart attack when he was admitted for treatment. He said doctors acted according to standard medical procedure after Gachagua complained of chest pains and signs linked to cardiac distress.
The testimony forms part of Gachagua’s broader challenge against the impeachment proceedings that removed him from office. The former deputy president argues that the process continued while he was unwell, denying him a fair opportunity to defend himself.
Dr. Gikonyo said stress was one of several factors considered during the examination. He added that Gachagua’s condition required immediate admission, monitoring and further tests to rule out severe heart complications.
Under questioning from lawyers, the cardiologist defended the accuracy of the medical records submitted to court. He dismissed claims of inconsistencies, saying the documents referred to separate timelines and events during treatment.
“The issues raised do not amount to contradictions,” Dr. Gikonyo told the court, according to proceedings.
Lawyers also questioned why the records identified the patient only as “R.G” alongside a passport number, rather than using the former deputy president’s full name.
Dr. Gikonyo acknowledged that the initials could, in theory, refer to another person. But he said the decision was intentional and meant to protect patient confidentiality. He later clarified that the initials referred to Rigathi Gachagua.
The case continues to draw national attention as it tests both the legal process behind Gachagua’s impeachment and the role medical evidence may play in determining whether his constitutional rights were violated.
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