Seme Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Elizabeth Owendi at a past function/KNA
Seme subcounty Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Elizabeth Owendi has raised alarm over rising cases of defilement in the area.
Owendi said the menace was worrying, with some of the defilers being men aged over 70, who are expected to give guidance to the community as senior citizens.
DCC revealed that in some instances, perpetrators have resorted to using kangaroo courts to settle the cases, avoiding the formal justice system.
This, she said, has emboldened the offenders, contributing to a rise in the number of defilement cases being reported in the area.
Owendi said in one of the cases, she said, the offender was asked to bring a goat to the parents of the victim to clear the case.
“It is disheartening that some members of the community choose to protect offenders through informal settlements rather than allow the law to take its course. These actions are detrimental to the welfare of our children and the moral fabric of society,” the DCC stated.
Speaking during the commissioning of a modern ECD centre at Ratta in Seme Sub-County, the DCC condemned the practice, calling it a grave violation of children's rights and an unacceptable act that undermines societal values.
She said her office was actively following up on the cases, assuring residents that the government would take stern action against offenders and those facilitating kangaroo courts.
“We will ensure that no child suffers in silence. Let it be known that no one is above the law, and justice will prevail,” Owendi said.
She urged members of the community to be on high alert and report cases of defilement to the authorities to ensure that all children in the area are protected.
The DCC further called on parents, teachers, and local leaders to play a proactive role in creating awareness about children's rights and safeguarding their well-being.
