Elgeyo Marakwet Senior Principal Magistrate Gladys Adhiambo has cited kangaroo courts as the major obstacle to accessing justice for children in Elgeyo Marakwet County.

The magistrate said children matters should be taken to court saying solving such matters outside the court process was against the law and warned anyone found setting up or attending kangaroo courts would dealt with with the full force of the law.

Addressing the press at Iten law courts, the magistrate called on all stakeholders involved in the judicial process to ensure that they avail all documents, reports and witnesses required to ensure that children cases are dispensed with during this month which is the child justice month.

Ms Adhiambo said while the court has been ensuring that children cases are heard and determined within six months, they want to ensure that all pending cases are done with during this month.

“We are therefore calling on advocates to attend court when required, police officers to avail files and witnesses and children and probation officers to ensure reports reach the court on time,” she said.

She reminded parents that whether married or not, they have equal responsibilities in taking care of their children calling on anyone with any case involving children to file the case in court.

“Our officers have set up a special desk to assist anyone with any challenge in filing such cases,” she said.

The magistrate said one doesn’t have to travel to Iten to file any case as the court conducts virtual hearings thus ensuring that anyone can access the court irrespective of where they are.

She added that one can call the No. 0748 201457 for any enquiries or through email address itencourt@court.go.ke.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Alice Wanjiru