Drop strict rules to end student unrest, Opposition leader Raila Odinga tells Education CS Fred Matiang'i

Opposition chief Raila Odinga wants the government to drop strict policies it is currently implementing in the education sector.

Mr Odinga said the government should return the order that also respects unique traditions of different schools. "The Government must immediately abandon the authoritarian policies it is adopting," he said.

In a statement yesterday, Raila wants the Government to assure Kenyans of the safety of their children while in school and be ready to take responsibility in the event students are hurt in the ongoing unrest.

On Tuesday, Education CS Fred Matiang'i attributed unrest in schools to frustrations by students after failing to illegally access national examination papers.

Two months ago, Education CS Fred Matiang'i announced stringent measures including change in term dates and abolition of traditions such visiting days as well as prayer days ahead of national exams to curb cheating.

However, Raila accused the Government of gambling with the lives of students and urged to take practical steps to stem violence and destruction of school property.

At the same time, the CORD co-principal called for reforms at the Kenya National Examinations Council (Knec), which he accused of failing to produce suspects of exams stealing, who he said should go to jail when exams are leaked.

"Knec needs reforms. It is the same agency that should be put to task over exam leaks, not students and teachers. Teachers, candidates and parents who are being targeted today are victims of corruption and institutional failure at Knec," Raila said.