A Muslim cleric has pleaded guilty to sexually abusing seven minors in a case that has shocked residents of Othaya and raised urgent concerns about child protection within religious institutions.
Sheikh Eid Ali admitted to eight counts of committing indecent acts with children during an appearance at the Othaya Law Courts on March 3, 2026. The plea was entered before Principal Magistrate Sandra Ogot.
According to the charges presented in court, the offences were committed between 2022 and 2025 inside the Othaya Muslim mosque, where the cleric taught madrassa classes. The victims are aged between five and fourteen years.
Under Kenya’s Sexual Offences Act, an indecent act with a child involves sexual contact intended to arouse or gratify sexual desire without penetration. The offence carries a minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment upon conviction.
Although the accused pleaded guilty to the charges, the prosecution has yet to read the full facts of the case in court. Magistrate Ogot scheduled March 10, 2026, for the formal presentation of evidence detailing the specific circumstances of each count before sentencing considerations begin.
The case has drawn strong reactions within the local community, where the mosque is regarded as a trusted place of worship and learning. Authorities have not released identifying information about the minors, in line with laws protecting child victims.
The court’s next sitting is expected to provide further clarity on the nature of the offences and the sentence the cleric may face.
