High Court Sets Hearing Date in Rashid Echesa Defamation Case
Court Hearing Scheduled
The High Court set January 22, 2026, for hearing Rashid Echesa’s defamation case. Moreover, the case involves Seth Panyako and Oga Obinna TV.
Petition Filed
Echesa filed the petition on January 7, accusing the duo of making false statements. Additionally, the remarks allegedly linked him to Malava by-election violence.
Allegations Against Panyako
Echesa argued Panyako presented his remarks as facts, not opinions. Consequently, the comments portrayed him as violent, arsonist, and public threat.
Impact of Statements
The former CS lamented that the publication exposed him to ridicule, hatred, and contempt. Furthermore, he claimed the video damaged his public reputation.
Echesa Denies Allegations
Echesa dismissed claims made during the November interview. Additionally, he maintained he has never led or participated in violent groups.
Clear Record Maintained
The politician emphasized his clean record. Moreover, he noted no criminal charges have ever been preferred against him.
Court Intervention Sought
Echesa requested immediate removal of the videos from Oga Obinna’s YouTube channel. Consequently, he seeks legal redress to protect his reputation.
Court Directions Issued
The court directed Echesa to serve respondents with the application. Additionally, the matter will proceed on January 22, 2026.
Panyako’s Claims
During the interview, Panyako accused Echesa and a local MP of receiving money to instigate violence. Moreover, he alleged politicians plotted to assassinate him before the mini polls.
Election Outcome
Despite the allegations, Panyako finished second in the Malava by-election. Ultimately, UDA candidate David Ndakwa won the contested seat.
