Patrick Geingob, a former teacher who allegedly stabbed his wife multiple times to death, was unable to undergo a second psychiatric evaluation.
The High Court had ordered for Geingob (38) to be subjected to a psychiatric observation by two psychiatrists. The order was made following a request from Geingob’s lawyer Jermaine Muchali, who argued earlier that the accused had been suffering from severe depression even before the incident.
Yesterday, judge Christie Liebenberg said one of the reports is available, but Geingob was unable to be evaluated by the second psychiatrist.
“The only available psychiatrist indicated he would be conflicted if he were to do an assessment on the accused as he had previously made an assessment on him”, the judge said.
According to the available report, Geingob is mentally fit to stand trial.
Muchali indicated that they have not yet made a decision if they will be challenging the psychiatric report. So, he will consult with Geingob on the way forward.
The State, represented by Marthino Oliver, however, will not be challenging the report.
The court indicated that the case is ready to proceed for trial, pending the decision of the defence on the way forward. The case was then postponed to 18 February 2022.
Geingob is charged with a count of murder, read with the provisions of the Combating of Domestic Violence Act, one count of defeating or obstructing the course of justice, one count of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, and one count of common assault.
The state alleges that he killed his wife Merentha Geingos in the kitchen of their marital home in Okuryangava by stabbing her with a knife 12 times in front of their children.
Geingos died on 14 April 2019.
-mamakali@nepc.com.na