This archive report was first published on 1 July 2021.
On June 22, 2021, a horrific incident unfolded in Langas estate, Eldoret, leaving a 17-year-old boy with severe burn injuries. Benson Sivanda, who had been living with his guardian after the death of his parent, was subjected to a brutal attack.
According to Sivanda, all had been well until he requested a share of his Kazi Kwa Vijana government project earnings, which he had worked for in lieu of his guardian's son. The guardian, who had promised to pay him Ksh3,000 out of the Ksh5,000, became furious and allegedly poured paraffin on his legs before setting them on fire.
“I worked in the kazi kwa vijana program on behalf of his son and he promised to give me Ksh3,000 out of the Ksh5,000 paid. But on the fateful day, she became furious upon requesting her the cash saying she has been attending to my basic needs. Together with her two sons, they beat me up and later burnt my feet with paraffin.I am in pain” Said Sivanda
After reporting the matter at the Langas police station, Sivanda expressed frustration at the lack of justice. The guardian was arrested but later released, leaving Sivanda to seek refuge with a friend.
“The woman was arrested and later released I am now living at a friend’s place hoping to get justice,” said Sivanda.
The matter is expected to come up for mention at the Eldoret magistrates court on September 26, 2021.
