Reject out-of-court settlement of child abuse cases, Kwale police tell parents
By Mishi Gongo |
Most parents opt for out-of-court settlements due to social stigma, County Commissioner Stephen Orinde says.
Police in Kwale County want residents to stop settling child abuse cases at home and instead report them to authorities for timely justice for the victims.
Most parents opt for out-of-court settlements due to social stigma, County Commissioner Stephen Orinde told The Eastleigh Voice.
Orinde also noted that cases increase during the holidays, hence the need for parents to be more vigilant.
"Cases of sexual abuse against minors are on the rise. What concerns us more is parents refusing to report these cases, especially those of incest, for fear of getting judged by society," he said, also citing sodomy and defilement as some of the most prevalent cases.
He also said the perpetrators are close family members, such as brothers, fathers, uncles, and grandfathers.
"Not reporting the crime is like aiding the perpetrator to continue his evil deeds because his actions go unpunished."
Orinde further emphasised the need for concerted efforts by parties including teachers, religious leaders, and human rights groups, to eradicate child abuse through initiatives such as public education forums on how to handle cases.
"There is a need for sensitisation because some people, especially at the grassroots, do not know how to handle these cases. Some even bathe their children before reporting the incidents, denying them justice as this interferes with evidence," he said
The county commissioner also advocated for counselling for victims to help them deal with trauma and warned parents against allowing minors to work in local liquor dens, as this increases the chances of abuse.
"Some parents make their children serve customers at mnazi (palm wine) dens, where they sometimes get sexually abused or harassed by drunkards. My office will come for you. If you must sell mnazi do it yourself. Don't involve children," he said.
He called on chiefs and village elders to be on high alert, especially during the holidays, when children are at home.
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