Education Cabinet Secretary, Ezekiel Machogu, has announced the resumption of studies in primary and secondary schools in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu.
Machogu, on Wednesday, July 19, noted that the government was confident of the safety of the children despite ongoing countrywide demonstrations, which Azimio la Umoja assured supporters will continue unabated.
The decision to re-open schools was based on an accurate assessment of the situation and the ability of the police to guard students and the general public against possible threats as a result of the ongoing protests.
"On July 18, 2023, the Government took the precautionary measure of ordering all-day primary and secondary schools in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu Counties to remain closed on July 19, 2023.
"As indicated, the measure was meant to ensure the safety of school children, based on the credible intelligence that criminal elements were intent on engaging with security agencies around certain schools.
"The Government has now undertaken an evaluation of the current security situation in various parts of the country, including in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu Counties," Machogu stated.
Machogu and his Interior counterpart, Professor Kithure Kindiki explained that the continued closure of schools would significantly jeopardise the national academic calendar.
"The relevant security agencies have established that the security situation in the three Counties, and in other parts of the country, has been restored to normal.
"On the basis of the evaluation, it is hereby directed that all day primary and secondary schools in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu Counties re-open for normal school activities on July 20, 2023," Machogu stated.
The two Cabinet Secretaries also assured children that no one would be allowed to interfere with the studies. They also warned Azimio la Umoja protesters not to try going close to the school, noting that they would face the full force of the Law.
"The Government has taken adequate measures to guarantee the safety and security of learners and their schools across the country," Machogu assured.
On Wednesday, July 19, former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga asked his supporters to resume anti-government protest on Thursday morning, as planned.
Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke, Philip Etale, Orange Democratic Movement's Communication Director, acknowledged the effort of demonstrators who technically paralysed economic activities in the country.
"The directive is in line with the Constitution which stipulates that protests should end at 5 pm," Etale stated.
