Parents Challenge Ksh 69 Million Damage Bill

Parents of students enrolled at Litein Boys High School in Kericho County have initiated legal proceedings against the school's administration, disputing a collective Ksh 69.6 million bill levied to cover damages from student unrest in September 2025. This translates to a charge of Ksh 49,699 for each of the school's 1,400 students, a figure parents deem exorbitant and unjustified.

The lawsuit, filed on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, through lawyers Danstan Omari, Shadrach Wambui, and Sam Nyaberi, alleges that the school's Board of Management (BoM) has repeatedly imposed questionable fees following student disturbances. Parents are demanding a comprehensive audit of all destroyed property and funds collected from previous incidents, claiming a lack of transparency in the current damage assessment.

Historical Context and Allegations of Exploitation

This is reportedly the third instance of student unrest at Litein Boys High School resulting in significant financial demands on parents. Lawyers representing the Parents Teachers Association (PTA) suggest a suspicious pattern, alleging that the school management and principal may be instigating these strikes for financial gain.

During a tense parents' meeting on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, emotions ran high as some parents sided with their sons, while teachers reported being jeered at. The PTA had proposed a contribution of Ksh 10,000 per student for essential repairs, arguing that the reconstruction of a burnt dormitory block should be covered by government capitation funds. This proposal was reportedly dismissed by the BoM.

Policy and Governance on Student Discipline

The Ministry of Education in Kenya has issued guidelines on managing discipline in schools, emphasizing the operationalization of discipline procedures and aligning school rules with the Basic Education Act, 2012. These guidelines stress clear consequences for infringements and the engagement of parents and school communities in rule formulation.

While the Ministry recognizes measures such as suspension, exclusion, and guidance and counselling for managing student discipline, it also states that arson cases should be treated as criminal acts, with culprits apprehended in accordance with the law. The Basic Education Regulations 2015, through Legal Notice No. 39, further outlines legislative frameworks for student discipline.

Stakeholder Testimonies and Concerns

Parents like Joyce Tonui, whose son is in Form Two, have questioned the inclusion of expenses such as painting and drainage system renovations in the total damage cost, arguing these were not directly caused by the students' actions. She also highlighted inconsistencies in damage estimates, noting an initial figure of Ksh 99 million that was later reduced to Ksh 69 million, raising concerns about transparency.

Another parent, Lydia Langat, expressed worry over unverified compensation claims by some teachers, with figures ranging from Ksh 459,000 to Ksh 557,000. The parents collectively stated that the process of arriving at the Ksh 69 million figure was not transparent.

Evidence and Data

• Total Damage Bill: Ksh 69,578,795 (revised from an initial Ksh 99,962,450).
• Per Student Fine: Ksh 49,699 for each of the 1,400 students.
• Parents' Proposed Contribution: Ksh 10,000 per student.
• Components of Revised Bill: Building repairs (Ksh 41,929,610), suppliers and teachers (Ksh 27,281,785), and consumables (Ksh 367,400).
• Date of Unrest: September 21, 2025.

Risks and Implications

The ongoing dispute and legal action could set a precedent for how schools handle student unrest and impose fines in Kenya. It also highlights the financial strain placed on parents, particularly in a context where some suspect strikes may be financially motivated. The phased reopening schedule, with Form Four candidates returning last, has also drawn criticism for potentially disadvantaging students preparing for national examinations.

Unknowns and Controversies

Unanswered questions persist regarding the transparency of the damage assessment process and the justification for certain costs included in the total bill. The parents' allegations of the school administration instigating strikes for financial gain remain a serious accusation that requires thorough investigation.

Timeline and Next Steps

The school has announced a staggered reopening schedule: Form Two students were expected to report on Wednesday, October 9, 2025; Form Three students on Sunday, October 13, 2025; and Form Four students on Wednesday, October 16, 2025. Students are required to clear outstanding fees and damage costs and be accompanied by a parent or guardian for readmission.

What to Watch

The outcome of the court case will be crucial in determining the legality and fairness of the imposed fines. Further, the Ministry of Education's response to the allegations of financial exploitation and the need for greater transparency in damage assessments following student unrest will be closely watched. The broader implications for student discipline management and parental involvement in school governance across Kenya are also significant.