KNEC replaces examination monitoring team at Nyabisase Senior School

The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has deployed a new team of examination officials to Nyabisase Senior School in Bobasi, Kisii County, following a violent confrontation in which candidates allegedly attacked a multi-agency monitoring team and seized a police firearm.

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba confirmed that the officials who were at the examination centre during Thursday's incident had been replaced to ensure the smooth administration of the ongoing 2026 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations.

Speaking in an interview with journalists, Mr Ogamba said investigations into the incident were underway and warned that anyone found culpable of examination malpractice or violating the law would face appropriate action. He assured parents and candidates that calm had been restored at the school and that examinations were proceeding without disruption.

The incident occurred on November 5, when a team comprising KNEC officials, police officers, Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) detectives and National Intelligence Service (NIS) personnel visited the school to investigate suspected examination irregularities.

The team reportedly encountered resistance from candidates, who turned violent, assaulted officers and damaged property.

In the ensuing confrontation, students allegedly overpowered a police officer and snatched his Ceska pistol, which they reportedly held for nearly three hours before it was recovered by security officers.

Kisii County Police Commander Ronald Kirui confirmed that four officers were attacked, with some members of the monitoring team sustaining injuries. The injured officer was taken to hospital for treatment. Anti-riot police were deployed to the school as security was heightened.

School's history of unrest

The incident has also drawn renewed attention to the school's history of indiscipline. In July, the school was closed following violent student protests over the appointment of a new principal. A dormitory was reportedly set ablaze during the confrontation.

Meanwhile, 55 teachers, cooks and security personnel have reportedly been summoned by the DCI to record statements as investigations into Thursday's violence continue. Authorities are seeking to establish the circumstances that led to the attack and determine the responsibility of those involved.