-
MP Timothy Kipchumba has warned students that they will face criminal responsibility if found guilty of destroying school property during unrest
-
He noted that under Kenyan law, any person aged 12 years and above can be held criminally liable for their actions.
-
Kipchumba urged learners to shun acts that lead to unrest in schools and embrace peaceful ways of resolving disputes.
Marakwet West Member of Parliament (MP) Timothy Kipchumba has warned students that they will face criminal responsibility if found guilty of destroying school property during unrest.
Speaking at St. Peter’s Marakwet Boys High School, the MP noted that under Kenyan law, any person aged 12 years and above can be held criminally liable for their actions. He urged learners to shun acts that lead to unrest in schools and embrace peaceful ways of resolving disputes.
Kipchumba cautioned students against engaging in arson and vandalism, stressing that grievances should be addressed through dialogue rather than violence.
He also called on parents to instill good morals and discipline in their children to help prevent the wave of school strikes recently witnessed across the country. The legislator described the recent incidents of student unrest as alarming, particularly because some have resulted in the loss of lives.
“It is disturbing to see children lose their lives through actions deliberately caused by fellow students,” he said, calling for stronger guidance and discipline both at home and in schools.
ALSO READ:
The MP further encouraged learners to take their education seriously and avoid activities that could derail them from achieving their goals. He emphasized that education remains the most effective tool for transforming society and improving livelihoods.
On the ongoing debate over the possible reintroduction of corporal punishment in schools, Kipchumba clarified that the proposed bill has not yet been tabled in Parliament. While acknowledging the need for careful consideration when reviewing laws related to children’s rights, he said any amendments must be approached cautiously and within the framework of existing legal protections.
“When the bill reaches the floor of the House, Parliament will consider it based on existing laws,” he said, adding that any changes must comply with the Constitution and child protection statutes.
His remarks come amid a rise in cases of school arson and vandalism across the country, with several institutions reporting millions of shillings in losses and significant disruptions to learning.
By Philemon Kiprop
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
