A Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) candidate from Chesamisi Boys High School in Bungoma County has appealed to be relocated to another examination centre over safety concerns following an alleged assault incident involving his father and the school principal.
The student, identified as Jonah Makani, claims he feels unsafe and emotionally distressed at the school after his father, Josephat Makani, was allegedly attacked by the principal on September 19. The national exams are set to begin on Monday, November 3, 2025.
However, the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) has stated that it has not received any formal request for Jonah to sit his exams away from Chesamisi Boys. KNEC Chief Executive Officer David Njengere said that the council only acts on official communication from the local education authorities.
“For all such matters, we need official communication through the Sub-County Director of Education,” Njengere said.
Josephat Makani, the student’s father, said he has been in constant contact with the Kimilili Sub-county Education Office to request a transfer, citing threats and fear for his son’s safety. Sub-county Director of Education David Wasike confirmed that his office had already submitted a report to KNEC and was awaiting further direction.
Jonah did not attend the KCSE rehearsals held at Chesamisi Boys, saying the school environment triggered trauma and anxiety.
“Don’t compromise my peace, safety, and security. Please relocate me from Chesamisi. It’s hostile and traumatic; it reminds me of the September 19 attack,” he said.
KNEC’s Bungoma County officer, Epha Tango, reportedly assured the family verbally of Jonah’s safety but did not provide written confirmation. The student’s father insists he will only feel secure once the council gives official written assurance.
“If the principal’s actions were right, then I don’t want to be wrong again,” he said.
The situation highlights growing concerns about student welfare and the safety of candidates during national examinations.
