[A man from Ogembo in Kisii was on Monday charged with defilement of a minor in a Kisii court. Photo/nation.co.ke]
A man was on Monday charged with defiling a Class Six minor in an Ogembo, Kisii County court.
Before Principal Magistrate Naomi Wairimu, Mr Ronald Morondo denied the charge that he defiled a 13 year old on March 23, 2017 at Moticho, Gucha South sub-county.
The offence was committed contrary to the Sexual Offences Act of 2006.
“A person who commits an offence of defilement with a child between the age of twelve and fifteen years is liable upon conviction to imprisonment for a term of not less than twenty years,” Section 8 (3) states.
The 26 year old denied the charge and applied for bail, a request the prosecution opposed, saying he was likely to interfere with the witnesses if released.
“We are concerned that the accused might interfere with witnesses and evidence related to this matter if he is allowed to go back to the village where the co complainant resides,” said prosecutor Ms Alice Waruguru.
The magistrate however granted his request, saying the accused had a right to be granted bail. She further instructed the prosecution to forward any complaints of interference with witnesses that may occur in the course of the legal proceedings.
“It is the right of the accused to apply for and obtain bond terms as the case proceeds. This is not however an opportunity for him to attempt to interfere with the witnesses and evidence available in the case against him,” said Ms Wairimu.
Ms Wairimu set bail at Sh 150,000 with a surety of a similar amount.
Hearing of the case has been set for April 24, 2017.