Machakos Woman Representative Joyce Kamene has blamed increased rates of defilement cases on complaints who opt for out of court settlements instead of pursuing justice in courts.
Kamene said residents should desist from being coerced with money or material gains to avoid moving to courts stating that defilement cases should be pursued in courts of law.
"Don't let fear, poverty or intimidation bar you from reporting sex crimes against children since it's denying victims their rights to justice," Kamene said.
The County MP spoke during Madaraka Day celebrations at Kisukioni in Matungulu Sub-county on Friday.
She said perpetrators have become emboldened by the absence of deterrent punitive measures to continue committing the heinous crimes.
"Most of these cases are being withdrawn from courts due to lack of witnesses and enough evidence, I urge parents not to be compromised when such crimes are committed against their children," Kamene added.
“Many sexual offenses are being withdrawn from the courts due to rampant out-of-court settlements, an action believed to be denying the affected children justice to the benefit of their parents who get compromised with money or material gains,” Kamene said.
Kamene, however, pledged to do everything possible to ensure that the crime is tamed and legal processes are respected and allowed to take their due courses.
She decried increased cases of defilement in Machakos County with Mavoko and Mwala sub-counties on the lead.
Kamene called upon all the stakeholders to come on board and ensure that defiled children get justice in courts.