Eldoret, Kenya — A court in Eldoret has sentenced a 31-year-old school driver to life imprisonment after finding him guilty of defiling a three-year-old playgroup pupil under his care.
Principal Magistrate Cherono Kesses delivered the ruling, stating that the prosecution had proven its case against Bernard Kipkorir beyond reasonable doubt.
“The accused violated the innocence of a minor entrusted under his care, and this court has a duty to protect children as provided under the law,” Magistrate Kesses said in her judgment.
Offence Committed Inside School Van
The court heard that the offence occurred on May 8 in Katuiyo, Ainabkoi Subcounty, Uasin Gishu County, as Kipkorir was ferrying pupils home from school.
Evidence presented in court, including medical reports and witness testimony, confirmed that the child had been sexually assaulted inside the school van.
The victim’s grandmother testified that she noticed the child walking with difficulty. Upon inquiry, the little girl identified the driver as the perpetrator.
“The conduct of the accused was unacceptable and a betrayal of trust,” the magistrate ruled, adding that the law demands severe punishment for such crimes.
Court Delivers Life Sentence
Under the Sexual Offences Act No. 3 of 2006, Kipkorir was handed a life sentence, which the court said was both retributive and deterrent — aimed at protecting minors from sexual predators.
Before sentencing, Kipkorir pleaded for leniency, saying he was the sole breadwinner for his family.
“I am the breadwinner of my family and I ask the court to have mercy on me,” he said.
However, the magistrate rejected his plea, saying the gravity of the offence outweighed his personal circumstances.
Kipkorir has been granted 14 days to appeal the decision.
Human Rights Groups Welcome the Ruling
Human rights and child protection groups in Uasin Gishu have welcomed the court’s decision, describing it as a landmark judgment in the fight against child abuse.
Benedine Kipruto, chairperson of the Uasin Gishu Civil Society Network, commended the verdict.
“The court has rendered the right judgment that will serve as a warning to anyone thinking of ruining the lives of innocent children,” she said.
Activist Kimutai Kirui hailed the ruling as “a victory for child protection and human dignity”, urging schools, parents, and local authorities to strengthen child safety measures both at home and in learning institutions.
Child Sexual Abuse on the Rise in Uasin Gishu
A report by the Directorate of Children Services paints a grim picture of rising child sexual abuse cases in the region.
Between 2021 and 2022, Uasin Gishu recorded 84 cases, while over 50 cases have already been reported in the first two months of 2025 alone.
Experts warn that the figures may be higher due to underreporting, stigma, and threats faced by victims’ families.
“The conviction sends a strong message to perpetrators that justice for children is not negotiable,” said activist Kirui.
What the Law Says
Under Section 8(2) of Kenya’s Sexual Offences Act, anyone convicted of defiling a child aged 11 years or below faces mandatory life imprisonment.
The law also provides for psychological support and compensation for child victims to aid recovery and reintegration.
Legal experts say the Eldoret case demonstrates that the judiciary remains firm in its mandate to protect children and uphold justice.
