Kilifi County Senator and Senate Minority Leader, Stewart Madzayo, has called for urgent investigations into the death of a pupil, Anestine Dzidza of Gongoni Primary School, who allegedly succumbed to corporal punishment in Kilifi County.

While seeking a statement from the Standing Committee on Education, Sen. Madzayo said the incident raises grave concerns given the existing ban on corporal punishment in schools.

He termed the case a violation of children’s rights and a tragic reminder of the need to enforce laws safeguarding learners.

"This tragic incident is a painful reminder of the dangers of corporal punishment. Schools must remain safe spaces for our children,” he said.

The Senator asked the committee to state the circumstances under which the pupil was subjected to corporal punishment, explain how such a violation could occur despite the ban, and outline enforcement, monitoring, and sensitization measures in place to prevent recurrence in schools.

He urged the committee chaired by Sen. Betty Montent to probe the incident, ensure prosecution of the suspect, and outline measures to strengthen child protection frameworks in schools.