Murkomen warns schools against pre-dawn reporting times

Kisii, Kenya — 2025-09-12 14:30 EAT. Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen cautioned schools that require pupils to arrive by 6 a.m., saying children who leave home at 4–5 a.m. face higher risk of defilement and abuse. He spoke at a security forum in Kisii. 

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Murkomen said early-morning travel exposes learners to offenders, often known to victims, and termed the practice contrary to education rules. He directed chiefs and assistant chiefs to sensitise communities and ensure all cases are reported and prosecuted, not settled informally. Status: developing guidance and enforcement. 

Context in Brief

Schools in several regions have pushed pre-dawn reporting to boost performance and discipline. Authorities say this increases vulnerability during dark, low-supervision hours and contradicts child-protection priorities. Recent statements by Murkomen have stressed zero tolerance for out-of-court handling of defilement. 

Law, Policy, and Process

• Sexual offences must be investigated and prosecuted under Kenyan law; local arbitration is barred. 

• Interior Ministry directs national administration officers on community safety; schools must align reporting times with education regulations. 

What to Watch

• Any circular from Education or Interior ministries standardising earliest reporting times.

• Enforcement actions against schools ignoring guidance.

• Community policing and safe-routes initiatives near schools.