Deputy CJ Mwilu Directs Conclusion Of Children Cases Within 6 Months

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun, 14 – Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu has directed courts to ensure that cases involving children are resolved within the next six months failure to which they should be dismissed.

Mwilu argued that it was indefensible that such cases should take longer than the period stipulated in the law.

The DCJ made the remarks during celebrations to mark the day of the African Child at Mbagathi Primary School in Nairobi which was attended by close to 1,000 learners from eight other schools within the area.

“When a wrong is committed, it ought to be addressed. Election-related cases must be determined in six months. Why should children’s matters go beyond that?” posed the DCJ.

In a bid to address the existing gaps, Mwilu said that through the National Council on Administration of Justice, a committee was appointed chaired by Lady Justice Teresiah Matheka to ensure children’s rights are upheld.

‘We have Children Court Users Committees where we set standards to be met across the justice institutions while dealing with children. We’ve also come up with a joint training program for all persons handling children cases.’Justice Teresia Matheka,Chair NCAJ Taskforce on Children

Also, the Judiciary revealed that it had safeguarded the rights of children after Chief Justice Koome allowed for the free filing of children cases, established separate Children Courts and holding areas, as well as facilitating the training of all in the justice chain who handle children.

‘I undertake that Judiciary will be more involved in Court Users Committees on children matters to ensure that justice is dispensed in a timely manner. I direct magistrates hearing children matters to be more friendly so kids aren’t intimidated while giving evidence.’ said Mwilu.

Meanwhile, parents, guardians, and caregivers have also been urged to be at the forefront of protecting their children from all forms of abuse.

‘A parent who conceals a crime against a child is not fit to be a parent. Following defilement, parents should help their children access justice by quickly presenting them to a hospital for the collection of evidence. Victims should not take a shower first.’ said the DCJ.