The government has declined to finance the KSh69 million reconstruction of Litein High School in Kericho County, following a student riot that left large parts of the school in ruins.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba, visiting the school on Monday, said public funds would not be used to repair destruction caused by what he described as “indiscipline and irresponsibility.”
“The government won’t spend taxpayers’ money to rebuild schools destroyed by indiscipline. That is a burden that falls squarely on the parents,” Ogamba said firmly during his tour of the institution.
While ruling out state funding, the minister pledged limited assistance for the construction of a perimeter wall around the school, citing the need to bolster security and keep outsiders from interfering with school activities.
Aftermath of the July Riot
The riot, which erupted in July 2025, saw several dormitories and classrooms set ablaze, forcing hundreds of students to be temporarily relocated. The incident shocked the local community and reignited debate about student discipline in public boarding schools.
Investigations are still under way, with police saying that both students and staff are expected to record statements. Local leaders have urged calm, asking parents and administrators to prioritise reconciliation and rebuilding trust.
Court Steps In to Ease Parent Burden
In a significant legal twist, the High Court in Kericho intervened in the dispute over who should pay for the damage.
Justice Joseph Sergon reduced the amount each parent was being asked to contribute — from KSh49,000 to KSh10,000 — describing the original figure as excessive and insensitive to the financial struggles families face.
“The earlier demand was punitive and failed to account for the hardships of parents, especially as national examinations draw near,” Justice Sergon ruled.
The court further directed both the school’s management and the parents’ association to file final submissions by November 21, 2025, ahead of a conclusive ruling.
Students to Sit Exams
The court also ordered that candidates preparing for the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) be allowed to return to school upon paying the reduced KSh10,000.
Lawyer Shadrack Wambui, representing the parents, welcomed the decision.
“The court was receptive to our submissions urging interim measures that allow Litein students to be readmitted and given a fair chance to sit for their KCSE exams,” he said.
Meanwhile, parents’ lawyers have urged the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to investigate the school’s administration over alleged mismanagement and previous cases of student unrest.
Lingering Questions
The Litein case has reignited a wider national discussion about accountability in schools, with many asking where responsibility lies when student unrest turns destructive.
While the government stands firm on its stance against funding repairs, education stakeholders say a deeper review of school governance and student welfare may be needed to prevent similar crises in future.