The Office of the Commissioner for Children would like to reiterate its concerns as stated on its social media platforms regarding the imprisonment of the mothers of two very young children. Article 9 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child clearly states that children should not be separated from their parents. The same Article also states that if for some reason children are separated from their parents, they should maintain personal relations and have direct contact with their parents.

Authorities should take necessary action to ensure that these children are protected and that decisions are taken in their best interests. The Office of the Commissioner for Children appeals to the Judiciary to be sensitive towards such cases to ensure that the rights of all children are guaranteed. Other forms of sentencing should have been explored in the case of these migrants, therefore, the decision to jail the mothers should be redressed as soon as possible to minimise the trauma caused.

In the meantime, the Office urges all entities involved to ensure that the children are well taken care of, that they are enabled to maintain meaningful contact with their mothers and that their privacy is respected.