Mityana Leaders Raise Concern Over Private Settlements of Child Defilement Cases

Leaders in Mityana District have raised concern over reports that some parents are privately settling child defilement cases instead of reporting suspected offences to the authorities, warning that the practice could undermine investigations and deny victims access to justice.

Faridah Nazziwa, the Mityana District Probation Officer, said some parents allegedly negotiate informal settlements involving the exchange of animals rather than reporting suspected cases to police and other responsible authorities.

Nazziwa said such arrangements make it difficult for authorities to follow up on allegations, establish the circumstances of the reported abuse and pursue legal action where evidence supports prosecution.

She urged parents and guardians to prioritise children’s safety and report suspected sexual abuse instead of resolving the cases through private agreements.

According to Nazziwa, informal settlements can prevent authorities from intervening and may leave children without adequate protection or access to the formal justice system.

She called for stronger cooperation between parents, community leaders and law enforcement agencies to ensure that suspected cases are reported and handled through the appropriate legal channels.

Nazziwa also urged community leaders to encourage parents to speak out when children are subjected to abuse and refer such cases to the relevant authorities rather than allowing them to be settled privately.

She emphasised that protecting children requires collective responsibility, with parents and communities supporting efforts to report suspected abuse, facilitate investigations and prevent further harm to victims.

The concerns highlight the challenges authorities face when suspected child sexual abuse is handled informally within families or communities, potentially limiting opportunities for investigation, protection and accountability.