Cour t gavel./FILE
A Kilifi farmer has been handed a 15-year prison sentence after being found guilty of defiling his 14-year-old daughter in a case that has sparked outrage and renewed calls for child protection.
The conviction secured by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) followed a ruling by Principal Magistrate Ivy Wasike, who said, “The prosecution had proved the case beyond a reasonable doubt.”
The man was charged with defilement contrary to section 201(1) of the Sexual Offences Act No. 3 of 2006 and an alternative count of committing an indecent act with a child under section 11(1) of the same act.
According to court records, the abuse took place on different dates between September and October 15, 2023, in the Rojorojo area, Kilifi County.
The court heard that the accused repeatedly defiled his biological daughter and threatened to harm her if she exposed him.
The minor eventually gathered the courage to write a letter to her headteacher detailing the evil ordeal. Immediately, the headteacher intervened, rescued her and reported the case to the authorities, leading to the arrest and the successful prosecution of the accused.
During the trial, Prosecution Counsel Nancy Njeru presented five witnesses, including the victim, whose accounts and testimonies supported and strengthened the case.
Principal Magistrate Wasike affirmed that the prosecution had proven all essential elements of defilement, including proof of the assault, verification of the complainant’s age and positive identification of the accused.
“The defence’s case offered by the accused is too weak to exonerate him from the grave charge”, Principal Magistrate noted in her judgement.
She emphasised that the 15-year
sentence would serve not only as punishment but also as a stern warning to
others who prey on vulnerable children.
The ruling
highlights the role of schools, communities and the justice system in
protecting minors and ensuring survivors of abuse find justice.
