Suspects arrested for impersonating Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) candidates in Kisii on November 6, 2019. PHOTO | RUTH MBULA
Thirteen teachers from Nyamninia Secondary School in Gem Yala, Siaya County, have been freed on bail. The KCSE exams invigilators and other officials were arrested on Monday over alleged exam cheating. Siaya Resident Magistrate Jacob Mkala set the teachers’ bond at Ksh.100,000 with an additional surety or a cash bail option of Ksh.20,000 each.
Magistrate Mkala dismissed the prosecution’s request to keep the teachers in custody for seven days. He instructed them to report to the investigating officer every two weeks if they are released on bond. Defense lawyers highlighted medical and family needs among the accused, urging the court to show leniency.
Details of the Alleged KCSE Exams Cheating Incident
The arrests occurred following a discovery by Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) officials, who noticed irregularities during the ongoing Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams. KNEC officials visiting Nyamninia Secondary School reportedly observed unusual student behavior during the Mathematics Paper 2 exam, raising concerns of cheating.
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Upon further investigation, officials found photocopied answers to the Mathematics Paper 2 exam. This evidence was allegedly linked to both a candidate and the school’s examination supervisor, Mr. Isaac Wesonga. The report stated that multiple students were seen trying to conceal evidence by stuffing the papers in their mouths and private parts.
The incident involved 13 teachers, including nine invigilators and senior school staff, who were immediately detained. Those held included Nyamninia Secondary School’s center manager, his deputy, an exam supervisor, and an invigilator who is teacher from St. Mary’s School Yala on BoM terms. One invigilator reportedly fled the scene.
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Authorities acted promptly, with a team led by Deputy County Commissioner Evans Otieno and the sub-county director of education arriving at the school.
The case is set to be mentioned again in court on November 25, 2024.
