DPP Seeks Video Testimony in Anglo-Leasing Case
DPP Requests Video Conference Testimony from Key Foreign Witnesses in Anglo-Leasing Scandal as Court Hears New Application
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has applied to have testimony from three critical prosecution witnesses in the Anglo-Leasing scandal taken via video conference, citing security concerns and logistical constraints.
In an application filed before the Nairobi Anti-Corruption Court, State Counsel Eva Kanyuira said the witnesses—who include United States citizen Bradley Charles Birkenfeld, Australian scholar Prof. Jason Sharman, and Indian national Srinivisan Ramachandran—are essential to the case but are unable to travel to Kenya.
Prof. Sharman, a leading expert on illicit financial flows, is currently based at Cambridge University in the UK, while Ramachandran resides in Switzerland.
Witnesses Cite Security Concerns and Tight Schedules
According to the prosecution, all three witnesses have been in contact with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and expressed concerns ranging from busy schedules to security risks, making physical attendance impractical.
Kanyuira emphasized:
“It is apparent from the witness statements that the evidence of the witnesses is essential to this case.”
She added that the prosecution is prepared to ensure all necessary arrangements are made to preserve the dignity and integrity of the court during video-linked testimony.
Testimony to Be Given from UK Between July 24–26
The witnesses are expected to testify remotely from the Kenya High Commission in the United Kingdom between July 24 and 26, 2017.
The court will remain within its current jurisdiction, with only the witnesses appearing from abroad.
The high-profile Anglo-Leasing trial—one of Kenya’s longest-running corruption cases—will continue as scheduled.
