Eight minors from Utumishi Girls Academy have pleaded not guilty to murder charges arising from the death of a fellow student, as the High Court formally commenced proceedings in one of the country’s most closely watched criminal cases.
The eight girls appeared before High Court Judge Diana Kavedza, who directed that they be referred to throughout the proceedings as “subject minors” rather than accused persons, in keeping with child protection laws.
“The subject minors are charged with murder,” Justice Kavedza stated.
The charges stem from investigations into the death of a student following a devastating fire at Utumishi Girls Academy that claimed 16 lives and shocked the nation. Following the investigations, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) approved murder charges against the eight minors. At the start of the proceedings, the court issued strict reporting guidelines aimed at safeguarding the identities of the children.
Justice Kavedza allowed accredited journalists to attend and report on the proceedings but prohibited the publication of any information that could directly or indirectly identify any of the minors.
“Accredited media representatives may attend and report from all proceedings conducted in open court. Such reporting shall be fair, accurate, and confined to the proceedings, the court rulings, procedural developments, and matters of legitimate public interest. No report, publication, or broadcast shall directly or indirectly identify any subject minor,” the court ordered.
The judge also cautioned the media and the public against conduct that could prejudice the trial, emphasizing that the children’s constitutional rights must be protected throughout the proceedings.
“The court must guard against trial by media, public pressure, sensitive concerns and premature conclusions,” Justice Kavedza said.
The murder trial comes after the Director of Public Prosecutions assigned two of the country’s most experienced homicide prosecutors to handle the case, underscoring its seriousness and public importance. Senior Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Gikui Gichuhi and Senior Deputy Director Vincent Monda, both attached to the ODPP’s Homicide Department, are leading the prosecution on behalf of the State.
The High Court directed that the proceedings be conducted in accordance with the law governing children in conflict with the law, while ensuring that the rights and welfare of the subject minors remain protected throughout the trial.
The case will proceed before the High Court on dates to be fixed by the court.
