President Uhuru Issues Warning Amid Wave of Arson Attacks in Schools

President Kenyatta has issued a stern warning amid a new wave of arson cases in schools around the country.

At least 10 schools have experienced fire incidents in the past two weeks, with the latest being at Bungoma High School, where a hostel was reduced to ashes on Friday morning.

Speaking during a media briefing on Friday, State House spokesperson Kanze Dena said President Kenyatta was greatly concerned over the trend.

Uhuru directed the National Police Service and the Education Ministry to open a probe into the incidents and bring the perpetrators to book.

“The President notes with great concern to increasing cases of arson in schools across the Republic and would like to remind the perpetrators of the serious crimes that the National Police Service working with the Ministry of Education are under firm instructions to deal decisively with anyone found culpable,” said Dena.

Other arson cases were reported in Chesamisi High School, Kimilili High School, Bukembe Boys, Ndivisi High School, Mbakalu High School, and Khasoko High School.

On Thursday, Education CS Prof. George Magoha called for the reintroduction of corporal punishment in schools as a way of taming indiscipline among students.

“Students who commit crimes will not walk scot-free. We must curb the situation before it worsens. If learners burn a building or do something wrong, teachers should cane them hence need to give teachers the power to punish them,” said Magoha.

“We are working with the Department of Criminal Investigation (DCI). We will also ensure that we investigate children who commit crimes, even after school. Those who will be found guilty of burning schools will pay the cost of rebuilding them through their parents.”