The Judiciary has been told to be firm when releasing child abuse suspects on bond to prevent risks of putting victims into further harm.
The plea comes amid growing concerns that suspects released on bond often return to the same communities and intimidate or continue abusing the children involved in their cases.
During a children’s rights forum held in Thika, legal advocates said stronger safeguards should be put in place to ensure victims remain protected throughout the judicial process.
Children’s rights activist Anne Mugetha noted that several survivors in the area have reported threats or renewed abuse from suspects out on bond, a situation she said undermines justice and discourages minors from testifying.
She stressed that both the courts and law enforcement agencies must prioritize protection mechanisms such as secure shelters, anonymity measures, and swift case processing to prevent re-victimisation.
She warned that without such safeguards, many cases risk collapsing due to fear and witness interference.
“Our courts should be firm when releasing suspects of child abuse on bond. There is also a need for coordinated efforts between the Judiciary, county agencies, community organisations and parents to eliminate abuse and exploitation and guarantee the safety of minors throughout the justice process,” said Mugetha.
In response to these concerns, officials confirmed that the Thika Law Courts have begun fast-tracking the hearing and determination of children-related cases under a new law designed to reinforce the protection of minors.
The legislation promotes a multi-sectoral approach, bringing together the Judiciary, parents, schools, social services, civil society groups, and community leaders to streamline how child-abuse cases are reported, investigated, and concluded.
Court administrators said prioritising these cases is meant to reduce trauma, cut delays, and ensure children do not remain entangled in prolonged legal battles.
The stakeholders at the same time noted that judicial reforms must be supported by community-level interventions, including adequate care facilities for abused children.
Despite this, it was disclosed that children’s homes and rescue centres in the county were facing funding challenges, with stakeholders faulting the Kiambu County government for failing to allocate funds to support them.
Thika Business Community Chairman Alfred Wanyoike said the neglect has left many vulnerable minors without safe shelter, counselling or rehabilitation services; a major setback at a time when cases of child labour and neglect are rising in the county.
“Institutions mandated to protect children cannot operate effectively without financial support.
There is thus the need for urgent budgetary action to prevent shelters from collapsing under increasing demand,” Wanyoike said.
By Muoki Charles
