Competence And Compellability

Question 1

Competence

Compellability: s. 125

Exceptions (5) with 5 cases

Answer 1

1. Spouses
   - s.127 but need consent for competence for defense unless it’s BOA ( r v maxwell mwaingolo case)
2. children
   - s.10 OASDA - voir dire test competence
   - Patrick Katherine v r: gave tender age a wider meaning
   - corroboration of tender years s. 124 ea unless sexual offence + the testimony is sworn in.
   - s.75 and 76 on children proceedings
3. Accomplices
   - s.141Ea
   - danger emperor v maganlal case
4. Unsound mind
   S. 125 ea
5. Intermediaries ( related to witness)
   S. 126 ea
   A.50(7) COK
   Mmv r

Question 2

Number of witnesses

Exceptions: 3

Answer 2

S.143- no number

Exceptions:
Treaso - s.45 penal code >2
Perjury - s.111 penal code > 1
Traffic cases - s.43 traffic accidents >1

Question 3

Oaths and affirmation

Effects of refusing to be sworn - 1 case

Answer 3

S.14: Oath and statutory declaration act
S. 151 cpc in criminal cases a must be on iatb

Oath: faith
Affirm: no faith

Effects of refusing to be sworn: contempt of court (s.27d) + unsworn statement cannot be cross-examined and have less weight as evidence ( samwel mwangi v r )