This archive report was first published on 23 April 2020.
On April 23, 2020, a Tharaka Nithi Court made a significant ruling in a case involving a Member of County Assembly (MCA) who was arrested for distributing face masks in Kathwana Township.
Chuka Resident Magistrate (RM) John Njoroge directed the prosecution to present clear charges against Marimanti ward MCA Susan Ngugi, who was arrested for allegedly holding a public gathering and endangering the lives of the residents.
The prosecution claimed that the MCA was arrested for holding a public gathering and putting the people of Tharaka Nithi in danger, which they considered a crime.
However, in her defense, Ms. Ngugi disputed the allegations, insisting that she was only distributing masks to the residents as a prevention measure against the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Your honour, the allegations are baseless because I was only distributing protective masks to the residents of the county to enable the less privileged access the vital gear,” said the MCA.
The RM directed the prosecution to present a clear reason for the arrest of Ms. Ngugi on the same day.
