Bernice Mbugua @BerniceMuhindi
The High Court has allowed Kenya National Association of Parents (KNAP) to contest school heads’ decision to violate gazetted fees guidelines. Justice George Odunga yesterday gave KNAP chair Musau Ndunda the green light to seek court orders penalising head teachers who charge fees way above what the government recommends.
Through lawyer Fredrick Wamalwa, the lobby argues that parents can hardly afford the increased fees. He asked the court to certify the matter urgent because it involves children.
“If the matter is not heard during the judge’s vacation period some of the students from the marginalised communities may not join the best schools due to the increased school fees,” said Wamalwa.
The parents lobby has sued Education Cabinet secretary Fred Matiang’i, claiming he has failed to exercise his ministerial powers and left public schools to alter fees at will.
They argue that many schools had issued fees structures in total disregard for State guidelines yet the respondents deliberately failed to invoke the law and prosecute school principals, head teachers and members of the boards who violate the law on fees.
Odunga certified the matter urgent based on the national interest of the matter. Ndunda was directed to serve Matiang’i before January 14 when the case will be heard again.
The association wants head teachers compelled to comply with a gazetted fees structure published last year by the ministry.
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