The Judiciary has introduced an innovative video link facility that enables child victims to testify remotely and witnesses can see the accused virtually
The Assistant Director for Public Affairs in the Judiciary, Jerusha Gichohi, said before the novel introduction, child victims had to face suspects in open courts which were intimidating and traumatizing to them.
She noted that with the new innovation, child victims don’t have to face suspects since they testify remotely through video links, which provides privacy to child witness as well as a conducive environment for children to freely testify without fear or pressure.
Ms Gichohi said the innovation can be replicated in all children courts and up scaled to other courts. She added that the innovation falls under initiatives that improve efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery that enhances safety.
Also, she said the video link will be convenient for child victim witnesses since they will be testifying from the comfort of their homes and while with trusted family members.
Speaking to KNA Wednesday, she said the video link witnesses’ system will first be piloted at the Nakuru Children’s Law Court before spreading countrywide.
By Veronica Bosibori
