Seven students linked to the deadly fire at Utumishi Girls Academy that claimed the lives of 16 learners have appeared before the Naivasha Law Courts as investigators continue to unravel the events that led to one of Kenya’s worst school tragedies in recent years.
The students were arraigned on Tuesday over the suspected arson attack that left 16 girls dead and scores of others injured after a dormitory was engulfed by flames in the early hours of May 28.
As the court process begins, investigators say they have uncovered disturbing details suggesting that frustrations over changes to the school’s examination timetable may have played a role in the incident.
According to information gathered by detectives, some students allegedly complained after exams were moved forward from June 16 to June 2.
Other grievances reportedly included charges linked to a planned cultural event and influence from unrest at a neighbouring school.
Detectives believe discussions about setting the dormitory on fire began hours before the tragedy.
CCTV footage under review is said to have captured crucial movements before the blaze, including the alleged acquisition of matchboxes and paraffin.
Investigators are also examining whether more individuals were involved.
The fire broke out shortly after midnight while more than 200 students were asleep in the dormitory.
Survivors recounted scenes of panic as learners scrambled for safety, with some jumping through windows to escape the inferno.
The tragedy left 16 students dead and dozens injured, sending shockwaves across the country.
The case has reignited concerns about school safety in Kenya, coming less than two years after another deadly dormitory fire claimed 21 lives in Nyeri.
Education stakeholders have since renewed calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations, improved emergency preparedness and closer monitoring of student welfare in boarding schools.
As families continue to mourn, investigators say the probe is far from over, with the possibility of additional suspects and further charges still under consideration.
