DCI boss condemns maslaha in GBV cases

The director of criminal investigation Mohamed Amin has expressed over use of maslaha to solve gender-based violence cases.

Maslaha is an informal, customary dispute resolution system practiced by Somali communities in Northeastern.

Amin said the system has denied many GBV victims justice, calling for an urgent solution.

He said while Maslah plays a crucial role in resolving disputes, it should not be used to handle serious criminal cases.

“It is unfortunate maslaha has been used to undermine the rule of law and hinder justice for victims. We must stand united in support of rule of law which supports the rights of all Individuals,” the DCI boss said.

He spoke at Sabunley Senior School in Wajir, during the handing over ceremony of the newly built perimeter wall.

Human right activists have also voiced their concerns over the abuse of maslaha, which they describe as patriarchal and tends to disadvantage women and girls.

They argue it is mostly administered by male elders without gender-sensitive considerations.

Victims, particularly women and girls, are often pressured or coerced into accepting maslaha resolutions by family members or clan elders. These resolutions rarely prioritise the victim’s needs or rights.

In March, in a case that shocked the nation, Gaala Abdi, a 17-year-old refugee girl from Dagahaley was killed after resisting a forced marriage.

Amin also called for concerted efforts to fight radicalisation.

He said the vice, which is still rife, is causing internal and external threats in the region.

The region has witnessed terror attacks, targeting security officers, civilians and places of worship. In some cases, the attacks have been carried out by Kenyan youth.

The DCI boss urged parents, educators, community and religious leaders to support the youth, whom he said, are the most vulnerable.

“We must create an environment that nurtures their aspirations, keeping them engaged in positive and constructive activities. By providing mentorship, resources and opportunities, we can empower them to pursue their dreams and become active contributors in our society,” Amin said.

While acknowledging that the security situation in Wajir is stable, the DCI boss urged residents to continue working with security apparatus to ensure the situation remains the same.

 “I am pleased to note that the security situation in Wajir county remains stable. thanks to the effective coordination among our county and subcounty security terms and the residents. I want to commend each and every person for working diligently to ensure our security is not compromised,” he said.

Amin said while existing land conflicts have been contained, there is need for a  swift resolution mechanism to prevent further escalation.

“It is critical that we enhance collaboration among all partners, including elected leaders, to promote peace, security and sustainable development,” he said.

Amin called on everyone to be vigilant about information they share, especially on digital platforms noting that rapid spread of disinformation and misinformation can create unnecessary discord and turmoil, putting the harmony we strive to achieve at risk.

“We each have a responsibility to foster a dialogue that encourages unity, understanding and collaboration,” he said.