Eight Utumishi Girls Academy students plead not guilty to murder charges in dormitory fire that killed 16
via Tuko2 min read
Eight students from Utumishi Girls Academy have pleaded not guilty to 16 murder charges in connection with a dormitory fire that killed 16 learners. The minors appeared before the Kibera High Court on Wednesday, July 1, denying allegations related to the blaze that occurred on the night of May 27 and 28 in Gilgil Sub-county, Nakuru county. Justice Diana Kavedza ordered that the identities of the students, referred to as "subject minors," remain protected under Kenyan child protection laws. The court also barred media from livestreaming proceedings and prohibited any reporting that could directly or indirectly reveal their identities, emphasizing factual coverage limited to court developments. Following the plea, the defence team initiated an application seeking bail for the eight students as the high-profile case proceeds.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Tuko.
The High Court has ruled that eight girls linked to the Utumishi Girls Academy fire will be treated as minors, not accused persons, during their trial. Justice Diana Kavetsa declared that the court will convert into a children鈥檚 court, emphasizing their constitutional protections despite the gravity of the charges. The Kibera High Court directed that the girls, connected to an arson attack that killed 16 learners, will be referred to as "subject minors" throughout the proceedings. Justice Kavetsa stated that the terminology used would change, asserting, "No one will call them accused persons. We do not have accused persons. These are children." The court will create a comfortable and safe environment for minors, handling the matter in line with requirements for children facing criminal allegations. Only the Director of Public Prosecutions and advocates representing the minors will be allowed in the courtroom. While acknowledging public grief, Justice Kavetsa cautioned against allowing sentiment to override due process, insisting the case would be decided strictly on admissible evidence and applicable law. She noted that while the minors face serious criminal charges, their constitutional protections as children are not diminished, nor does their status as children diminish the gravity of the lives lost. The court's task is to balance both realities without compromise.
Human rights defender Boniface Mwangi paid a visit to veteran politician and former political detainee Koigi wa Wamwere at his home. A TikTok video captured Mwangi signing his book, UnBounded, before entering the compound. Once inside, Mwangi presented the signed book to Koigi, expressing gratitude for his contributions to the nation and lauding his steadfastness during Kenya's autocratic eras, calling him a national hero. Koigi, in turn, displayed his biographical book, I Refuse to Die: My Journey for Freedom. The visit included a segment in Koigi's living room, which is adorned with framed photographs of historical figures, regional liberators, and global icons of revolution and civil rights. Mwangi pointed out former legislator Mwachofi Mwashengu among the portraits. Koigi recalled being jailed with Mwashengu during their youth, highlighting the sacrifices made by his generation for basic freedoms. When asked for advice for the younger generation, Koigi emphasized that a life dedicated to advocacy is more fulfilling when one stands up for principles rather than surrendering. He advised young people to maintain momentum, stating, "It is more fulfilling when you fight than when you surrender." Reflecting on leaders like Ghana's founding President Kwame Nkrumah, Koigi acknowledged the challenges faced by contemporary activists and the moral imperative for the new generation to live up to the standards set by past figures.
Kenya has launched a new strategy to make sanitary pads more affordable by boosting local manufacturing and supporting investments in the menstrual health sector. The plan includes tax incentives, increased support for local producers, and a proposed multi-agency framework to improve access for women and girls nationwide. This commitment was reaffirmed during the Kenya Menstrual Economy Conference KMEC 2026 declaration in Nairobi on June 30. The government's decision to remove taxes on sanitary towels is a key measure aimed at lowering prices and encouraging local production. Alex Manyasi, head of policy, advocacy and research at the Centre for African Progress CentAPro, stated that this tax relief is part of a broader effort to ensure menstrual health remains a priority and that access is not denied due to cost. The Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry is expected to lead a Multi-Agency Action Plan on the Menstrual Economy, bringing together various stakeholders to coordinate investments and policy interventions. The goal is to build a resilient, investment-ready menstrual economy that promotes health, dignity, and economic empowerment for women and girls. The declaration also emphasizes expanding local production by helping Kenyan manufacturers meet certification standards, develop innovative products, access affordable financing, and secure larger markets. Stakeholders also committed to promoting environmentally sustainable production, improving waste management, st