Family Court Shuts Down Due To Covid-19 Outbreak

By Clinton Ochieng

The family division of the High court located at the Milimani Law Courts has been shut down temporarily after three members of staff tested positive for Covid-19.

One of those who tested positive has been admitted to the hospital for urgent medical attention. According to the acting CJ, the court’s division will be closed for seven days from Wednesday to break the transmission chain and allow staff to quarantine in line with the Health Ministry Covid-19 protocols.

“Due to the nature of the Division, there is a high volume of the daily movement of files across the Division’s sections as well as within the building, courtroom, and judges’ chambers. Due to this high level of movement of files and the extensive interaction between staff, as well as between staff and our clients and court users, we are apprehensive of the potential for significant spread of the virus,” said acting Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu in a statement on Wednesday.

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Health CS Mutahi Kagwe yesterday revealed that Kenya is experiencing the third wave of the pandemic. The acting CJ said services at the Family court will resume as soon as circumstances allow and will provide updates as and when they become available.

Mwilu said the Judiciary’s key obligation in the current circumstances is the health and safety of all staff, court users, and their families.