By Cally Imbayi
The Court in Kakamega has awarded Sh. 1.25 million to each of the families of Kakamega Primary victims who died in a stampede within the school.
The unfortunate tragedy which saw 15 learners lose their lives took place at the school on February 3, 2020 when pupils trampled upon each other on the staircase of their classrooms at the end of their studies.
While ruling on the case that was presented to court by the parents of the victims who sought justice for their children, the Chief Magistrate at the Kakamega law court, Linus Kassan said the parents produced sufficient evidence that the school management failed to provide the required safety for the pupils.
“The school management who are responsible for the welfare of the minors bear broader responsibility of ensuring that the children are safe and free from harm.
They ought to have foreseen any danger that might have arisen in case of such an unexpected event as being caretakers of the children between the school-going hours.” Said Kassan in his ruling.
The parents lauded the court for what they called ‘just ruling’ but were quick to state that no amount of money would take away their sorrow nor equalize the lives of their children.
“We thank the court for the rulings although we know that no amount of money can be equal to the dear lives of our children.
However we were just pursuing justice for our children and this is a lesson to school management to be responsible for the safety of the children and any other person within the schools.” One of the parents said
