A 66-year-old herdsman, Ezekiel Ebonyo Emoni, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison by an Eldoret court for defiling a 12-year-old girl after luring her with Ksh.10 worth of mandazi. Senior Resident Magistrate Daniel Sitati delivered the verdict, describing Emoni as unremorseful even after the prosecution presented overwhelming evidence against him.
The shocking incident occurred between February 15 and 16, 2021, in Ngurunga, Kapsoya Estate, Uasin Gishu County. According to court proceedings, the minor was sent to a shop by her mother when she encountered Emoni, who was known to her grandfather. The accused enticed her with mandazi before forcibly dragging her into his rental house and assaulting her.
During the trial, the victim bravely recounted the traumatic ordeal, detailing how Emoni locked her inside his house. Medical reports from Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) confirmed the defilement, strengthening the prosecution’s case.
In a bizarre twist, Emoni claimed during mitigation that the girl’s mother had framed him due to a long-standing dispute. However, Magistrate Sitati dismissed this defense, emphasizing the gravity of the crime and the need for justice.
The 20-year sentence sends a strong message against sexual violence targeting minors, a persistent issue in Kenya. Activists have long called for stricter penalties to deter such offenses and protect vulnerable children. The court’s decision highlights the judiciary’s commitment to holding perpetrators accountable, regardless of age or social standing.
Emoni has 14 days to appeal the ruling, but the verdict has been welcomed by child rights advocates who hope it will encourage more survivors to seek justice. The case also underscores the importance of community vigilance in safeguarding children from predators who exploit trust and familiarity.
As Kenya continues to combat sexual violence, this ruling serves as a stern warning: crimes against children will be met with the full force of the law.
