Students who are under investigation over the deadly fire at Utumishi Girls Academy have reportedly shared what they claim motivated the incident that resulted in the deaths of 16 students and left many others injured.
The revelations have emerged as detectives continue to piece together the events that led to one of the most tragic school disasters in recent years.
According to preliminary investigations, frustration had been building among a section of Form Four students following decisions made by the school administration.
One of the issues reportedly involved the rescheduling of examinations. Students are said to have been unhappy after learning that exams initially expected to begin on June 16 had been moved forward to June 2.
Investigators believe the change may have increased pressure among some learners and contributed to growing dissatisfaction within the school.
Another matter under investigation concerns a directive requiring students to contribute money towards a cultural event.
Reports indicate that the event had previously been funded by the school, and some students allegedly opposed the new arrangement.
Detectives say these concerns may have further fueled tensions among a group of learners.
The suspects, who are currently in police custody, reportedly told investigators that the fire was intended as a protest against the administration’s decisions.
Some are also said to have admitted that they wanted to be part of a wider wave of student unrest and school strikes that have been reported in different parts of the country in recent weeks.
Investigators believe planning for the attack may have started at around 9 p.m., only a few hours before the fire broke out shortly after midnight.
Authorities are now focusing on how the suspects allegedly obtained kerosene that was reportedly used in the incident. Detectives are also examining whether any individuals outside the school may have assisted in planning or carrying out the attack.
The students under investigation reportedly insisted that they never intended to cause deaths or injuries. According to their statements, their objective was allegedly to damage the dormitory as a way of expressing grievances.
However, authorities continue to investigate all circumstances surrounding the tragedy, including the actions that led to the loss of lives.In response to the disaster, the government has announced new measures aimed at improving safety in schools.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has directed schools to install CCTV cameras in key areas, while Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has ordered nationwide inspections of boarding schools to strengthen safety standards and help prevent similar incidents in the future.
