NAIROBI, Kenya — Eight minors from Utumishi Girls Academy have been formally charged with murder in connection with the death of a fellow student, with the High Court ordering that their identities remain protected throughout the proceedings.
The eight girls appeared before the High Court and pleaded not guilty to the charges.
During the proceedings, Justice Diana Kavedza emphasized that, because of their age, the girls should not be referred to as accused persons but as “subject minors.”
“The subject minors are charged with murder,” Justice Kavedza stated.
Court bars disclosure of identities
The court issued strict directives prohibiting the publication of any information that could directly or indirectly identify the minors involved in the case.
While accredited journalists will be allowed to attend and report on the proceedings, Justice Kavedza said media coverage must remain factual, balanced and limited to matters before the court.
“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,” the judge ruled.
She further ordered that:
“No report, publication, or broadcast shall directly or indirectly identify any subject minor.”
The directive aligns with Kenyan child protection laws, which seek to safeguard the welfare, privacy and legal rights of children involved in judicial proceedings.
Warning against trial by media
Justice Kavedza also cautioned against speculative reporting and public commentary that could prejudice the case.
She stressed the importance of preserving the integrity of the judicial process and protecting the minors from undue public scrutiny.
“The court must guard against trial by media, public pressure, sensitive concerns and premature conclusions,” she said.
The judge noted that public interest in the matter must be balanced against the constitutional and legal protections afforded to children.
Background to the case
The charges arise from investigations into the death of a student at Utumishi Girls Academy.
According to court proceedings, investigators compiled evidence that was subsequently reviewed by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).
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The prosecution approved multiple charges against the eight minors following the completion of preliminary investigations.
The case has attracted significant public attention given the seriousness of the allegations and the fact that those charged are school-going minors.
Child protection considerations
The High Court indicated that the proceedings will continue under legal frameworks designed to protect children within the justice system.
While the murder charge remains one of the most serious offences under Kenyan law, the court emphasized that the rights and welfare of the minors must be protected throughout the trial.
Legal experts note that cases involving minors require courts to balance accountability with the constitutional obligation to protect children from unnecessary exposure and harm.
The matter is expected to proceed through pre-trial and evidentiary stages in accordance with Kenyan criminal procedure and child protection laws.
No hearing date for the next phase of the case was immediately announced in open court.
