Report defilement cases and testify, DPP Ingonga tells parents

He said that some of the cases don’t go to court not because the victims are unwilling to pursue but because of collusion to conceal
He said the fight against sexual and gender-based violence cannot be won in courtrooms alone as begins in homes, schools, churches, and other community spaces

Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga has cautioned parents against colluding to conceal defilement cases, saying the vice remains rampant in many communities.

Speaking during a community dialogue themed ‘Piga Gumzo na DPP’ at the Salvation Army Church in Kakamega, Ingonga said some families treat defilement as a minor issue despite its lifelong impact on victims.

“Parents must come out to report and testify in cases of defilement. Remember, we are dealing with the life of a child who will never forget the experience,” he said.

The DPP said that some cases fail to reach court due to collusion between families and perpetrators, rather than victims’ reluctance to seek justice. He said witnesses fearing for their safety can testify privately if they are willing to provide evidence.

He cautioned parents against delaying reports, saying perpetrators often exploit the time to destroy evidence.

Data from Kakamega County shows that defilement remains among the most prevalent crimes, particularly affecting children aged between 10 and 17.

Ingonga said the fight against sexual and gender-based violence cannot be won in courtrooms alone but must begin in homes, schools, churches and other community spaces.

“Together, we must create an environment where survivors feel safe to speak, perpetrators are held accountable, and every child and adult in Kakamega can live free from violence and fear,” he said.

He explained that ‘Piga Gumzo na DPP’ forums aim to raise awareness on the ODPP’s mandate, educate the public about the criminal justice system and promote alternatives such as plea bargaining and diversion programmes.

The initiative also provides legal guidance and strengthens relationships between prosecutors, communities and justice stakeholders.

Ingonga said many Kenyans with legitimate cases often approach the wrong institutions, leading to delays or loss of justice.

“By the time such people reach the right offices, it’s sometimes too late,” he said.

He urged the public to embrace mediation processes where appropriate, noting that court outcomes often widen rifts between disputing parties.

“The community is a very important component in prosecution because prosecution is by the people of Kenya,” he added, urging citizens to understand the justice system under the 2010 Constitution.

DPP Dennis Ingonga’s remarks in Kakamega highlight growing concern over the concealment of defilement cases at the community level. His warning underscores a persistent culture of silence and family collusion that undermines justice for child victims. By urging parents to testify and report promptly, Ingonga is emphasising the moral and legal duty to protect children and preserve crucial evidence.

His call for public dialogue and mediation reflects an effort to demystify Kenya’s justice system and rebuild trust between prosecutors and citizens. The initiative signals a shift toward community-centred justice that prioritises prevention, accountability, and survivor protection.