Following a marathon debate and despite strenuous objections from the main opposition benches, government late Tuesday night used its majority in the National Assembly to pass amendments which will now see juveniles being tried together with adults for indictable offences they are accused of committing together, which cannot be disposed of by summary trial.
Government’s position in the Bill’s explanatory memorandum, has been that the amendment will save judicial time and money; but notes importantly that it also allows the Court to employ all necessary measures it considers appropriate, to ensure the best interest of the juvenile remains paramount.