Uasin Gishu County Assembly Mandates DCI Investigation into Child Rape and Pregnancy at Rescue Center; County Executive Obligated to Cover Assault Victim’s Medical Expenses
Notably, the report stresses that the facility should exclusively cater to individuals under 18 years of age, with provisions for adult offenders to be transferred to appropriate rehabilitation centers or police custody for legal proceedings.
A section of the people being held at the rescue centre in Uasin Gishu.File Photo
On Tuesday, March 19, 2024, the Uasin Gishu County Assembly took a decisive step in addressing concerns surrounding the Eldoret Children’s Rescue Centre by adopting a meticulously crafted report. Presented by the esteemed Committee on Labor, Gender, Social Protection, and Children, led by Moi’s Bridge MCA, Patrick Kimeli, this report reflects a concerted effort to investigate and rectify alleged abuses within the facility.
In developing this report, the committee conducted thorough assessments, including visits to the rescue center and extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including officials, officers from the Department of Gender, and victims of reported mistreatment at similar county-run facilities. As a result, the report outlines several critical recommendations aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals under the care of the Eldoret Children’s Rescue Centre.
One significant recommendation is the directive to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to conduct a comprehensive investigation into allegations of rape and pregnancy involving a child at the center. Additionally, the assembly has called for the establishment of a task force to probe claims of misconduct by county enforcement officers at the facility, emphasizing the importance of accountability and oversight.
Recognizing the necessity for clear operational guidelines, the committee recommends the formulation of policies to govern the center’s activities. Notably, the report stresses that the facility should exclusively cater to individuals under 18 years of age, with provisions for adult offenders to be transferred to appropriate rehabilitation centers or police custody for legal proceedings.
Furthermore, the report underscores the imperative of ensuring the safety and legality of enforcement operations. To this end, it is proposed that county enforcement officers be accompanied by police officers during their operations, serving to uphold procedural standards and prevent potential abuses of power.
The report also highlights regulatory non-compliance, noting that the center’s activities, including education and rehabilitation efforts, contravene provisions of the Children’s Act No. 8 of 2001. It calls for an audit of all donations received and urges the installation of CCTV cameras at the facility to enhance security and accountability. Additionally, the committee notes the absence of proper staffing and infrequent visits by the Children’s Department, further emphasizing the need for improved oversight and support.
In conclusion, the adoption of this report signifies the county assembly’s commitment to addressing systemic issues and ensuring the protection of vulnerable individuals at the Eldoret Children’s Rescue Centre. Through diligent oversight and implementation of recommended measures, the assembly aims to uphold the principles of justice, accountability, and the safeguarding of human rights within its jurisdiction.
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