DPP seeks review of out-of-court settlement for Sunshine students

Director of Public Prosecutions Keriako Tobiko, who wants a review of a court decision allowing Sunshine Secondary School and parents of students suspected of arson to settle the case out of court. PHOTO | SALATON NJAU | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • DPP argued that there is sufficient evidence to charge the students with arson and conspiracy to commit a felony.

Director of Public Prosecutions Keriako Tobiko on Tuesday moved to court seeking a review of a decision to allow an out-of-court settlement between the Sunshine Secondary School administration and parents of eight students over the burning of a dormitory.

The DPP argued that there is sufficient evidence to charge the students with arson and conspiracy to commit a felony.

On Monday, a court granted the eight Sunshine students seven days to settle the arson matter of out of court.

The school had requested the court to “give dialogue a chance” to resolve the students’ arson case amicably.

Chief Magistrate Lucy Gitari allowed the school’s request and directed each of the students to sign a bond of Sh50,000 until August 2, when the school will report on the progress of the negotiations.

However, the DPP claimed the ruling was “bad in law” because it directly instructed the school and parents to engage in negotiations without regard to the position and mandate of his office.

(Editing by Joel Muinde)