NAIROBI, Kenya — The High Court in Kibera has directed that members of the media be excluded from the proceedings of the trial of eight students charged over the fatal dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls School, which continued virtually on Thursday, June 26.
The accused, who remain in custody at the Kabete Juvenile Remand Home, attended the session virtually and were not physically presented in court.
A key issue during the hearing was whether the suspects should undergo mental assessment before the murder case proceeds. Lawyers representing both the defence and the prosecution presented arguments on the matter before the court.
The eight students face murder charges over the dormitory blaze at the Gilgil-based school in May, which claimed the lives of 16 students and left dozens of others injured.
Investigators have previously indicated that forensic evidence, CCTV footage and witness statements linked the suspects to the fire, which authorities believe was deliberately started.
The case has attracted nationwide attention, reigniting debate over school safety, student discipline and the availability of mental health support in learning institutions.
The court is expected to issue further directions on the mental assessment application as the proceedings continue.