A Catholic priest from Bomet County has been arraigned in court alongside the mother of a 14-year-old boy over allegations of assault within church premises. The case, which has unsettled many locals, involves a Grade 8 pupil who was reportedly attacked on September 2.
What happened in the alleged assault case?
Reports indicate that the boy was assaulted at the church grounds, though details of what led to the confrontation remain unclear. Prosecutors allege that both the priest and the boy’s mother were involved in the incident, with the unusual twist being that the parent is accused of assaulting her own child.
The two were formally charged before Chief Magistrate Esther Boke, where they denied all allegations.
The priest and the mother were each released on a cash bond of Ksh.150,000 while awaiting further proceedings. The case is scheduled for mention on September 16, when the court will determine if additional witnesses will be called or if the matter will proceed to a full hearing.
The case has sparked widespread attention in Bomet, with residents expressing shock over the involvement of a clergyman and a parent in allegations of child assault. Child rights advocates have called for a thorough and impartial investigation to ensure justice for the minor. Meanwhile, church officials are yet to issue an official statement.
As the hearing date approaches, all eyes remain on the court’s next steps in a case that has raised deep concerns about child safety, trust in religious leadership, and parental responsibility.
By Lucky Anyanje
