In a major shake-up announced on Friday, May 29, the CS dissolved the school’s Board of Management over what he termed as failure to comply with school safety regulations and basic education standards.
“The Board of Management of Utumishi Girls Academy has been dissolved for failing to ensure compliance with the school safety manual and the basic education regulations,” Ogamba stated.
The government also confirmed that disciplinary action would be taken against the school principal and other teachers linked to alleged negligence before and during the tragedy.
According to Ogamba, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has already been informed and is expected to begin immediate disciplinary proceedings against the affected staff members.
“The TSC has been appraised of these findings and is taking appropriate and immediate disciplinary action against the principal for failing to ensure compliance with the school safety manual and basic education regulations,” he said.
The CS further revealed that investigations had established that some teachers had prior information about a possible unrest involving a section of Form Three students but allegedly failed to act in time.
“Two teachers were informed of planned unrest by a section of Form Three learners. However, the teachers did not take appropriate action before the arson despite being informed beforehand,” Ogamba disclosed.
He added that the teachers who ignored the warning signs would also face disciplinary action through the TSC.
The shocking revelations emerged as investigators continued piecing together events surrounding the deadly dormitory fire, which has now officially been classified as an act of arson.
Ogamba confirmed that detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) are currently holding eight learners considered persons of interest in the ongoing investigations.
“The investigation will ascertain their individual roles in the planning and execution of this heinous act. Those found culpable will be charged in accordance with the law,” he stated.
The Education CS also faulted the school administration for failing to observe crucial safety guidelines.
According to preliminary findings, the dormitory was overcrowded and one of the exit doors had reportedly been locked, contrary to established school safety regulations.
The tragedy has sparked national outrage and renewed debate over safety standards in boarding schools across Kenya, with many leaders and parents demanding accountability and stricter enforcement of school safety policies.
Investigations into the incident are still ongoing.
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