Judiciary raises concern over rising defilement, land cases in Nyamira

When a 13-year-old girl suffering from a psychiatric disorder was allegedly defiled by a 70-year-old immediate neighbor. [Sammy Omingo, Standard]

The Judiciary has raised concern over the rising defilement and land cases in Nyamira.

Deputy Registrar of the Nyamira Law Courts, Beniah Okong'o said they have been receiving many cases related to land and sexual offences against minors.

Defilement cases were, for instance, topping the list of matters where victims, who are minors, do not end up getting justice because of lack of preserving evidence as well as parents and guardians compromising the right of the minors to access justice.

Even though the Judiciary could not immediately provide statistics on such cases, it noted that the trend was alarming.

Okong'o noted that most defilements collapse due to the failure of parents and guardians to appear in court or concerned parties failing to provide evidence to sustain the case.

"The court has had cases where a defilement matter is prosecuted, but henceforth, those responsible to the affected children fail to appear before the court, and the case is removed from court in such manner," the deputy registrar said.

On land issues, Okong'o noted that about 1,500 cases were being handled by Nyamira Law Courts, out of which around 500 were at the Environment and Land Court.

To promote the effective dispensation of justice by bridging the knowledge gap, the Judiciary has resolved to hold an open day for the public to be educated on legal matters and how the courts function.

Advocates from Nyamira led by Danstan Omari are expected to attend the event, where they will offer free services to residents.

Addressing journalists, Omari acknowledged that the level of ignorance of legal procedures and the Constitution especially laws on children was high.

"We have come together over 200 advocates of the High Court from Nyamira to make sure the day turns out as a success in bridging the existing knowledge gap on judicial affairs and the law," he said.

During the open day slated for May 15, the public and Judiciary will plant trees at Embonga Secondary School in West Mugirango constituency.