Mutula, Murugi disagree on school skirts

By MARION NDUNG’U

Two Cabinet ministers Wednesday disagreed in public over the on-going debate on school wear.

Education Minister Mutula Kilonzo, who has been advocating for change of dress code, dismissed suggestions by Special Programmes minister Esther Murugi that miniskirts are acceptable.

Murugi started the debate, saying she supported girls wearing miniskirts to school.

She said that she wore miniskirts in her school days, but it did not prevent her from studying.

“It is fashionable, it is my right. Let us not discuss petty issues and discuss education,” said Murugi.

Mutula on the other hand maintained he did not support miniskirts in schools or even the office and was advocating for decency.

He, however, said that it was ridiculous to make girls wear skirts reaching the ankle, which makes walking difficult.

At the same time, Mutula said that he was formulating a law on discipline in schools, which he will present this month.

Speaking at Giakanja Boys Secondary School in Nyeri during the Golden Jubilee celebrations, Mutula said that the Bill would ensure that indiscipline is no longer an issue.

“Revolution does not come with a loud sound. Never again will you hear students rioting,” said Mutula.

Incidentally, Giakanja High School had for years been rocked by indiscipline.  Mutula said the proposed law is on the Kenya National Examination Council website where people can read it and give recommendations.