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MPs probe link between Chemelil Academy attack and sugar mill lease
Students report back to Chemelil Sugar Academy as security officers maintain a presence at the school following a violent attack by armed assailants earlier in the day on June 18, 2026.
A preliminary report on the attack at Chemelil Academy in Muhoroni is expected to be tabled in Parliament on Thursday as lawmakers pile pressure on the government to arrest those behind the incident.
Muhoroni MP James K'Oyoo, in a request for a statement in the House, wants the Ministry of Interior to explain the circumstances surrounding the attack, arrest all those involved and reveal the motive behind targeting a learning institution.
According to Mr K'Oyoo, the perpetrators are "well-known and deeply connected people".
"These people are known. They are normally seen walking around at night, but only four out of the 12 suspects have so far been arrested. The police should arrest all of them, no matter who they are related to," Mr K'Oyoo said.
The lawmaker said the attack has raised serious questions about the security of learning institutions, not only in Muhoroni but also across the country.
"The ministry should tell this House the circumstances surrounding the attack, including the factors that led to the incident and the identities of those who committed the crime," he said.
Mr K'Oyoo also wants the ministry to state whether the attack is linked to the transition of the school following last year's leasing of Chemelil Sugar Company to Kibos Sugar Company.
If there is such a connection, he said, the government should outline the measures being put in place to guarantee stability at the institution.
"I want an immediate investigation into this matter and there should be no sacred cows. Whoever was involved, however connected they are, must be held accountable," the MP said.
Sigowet-Soin MP Justice Kemei said there is growing concern following the lease of Chemelil Sugar Company to Kibos Sugar as questions emerge over whether the new owner will continue sponsoring the school, a situation that could affect learners.
"This is a premier academic institution not only in Nyanza but also in the Rift Valley as it draws learners from across the country. This is a serious matter because residents around the school and those in neighbouring Nandi feel insecure and the situation needs to be addressed urgently," Mr Kemei said.
Urgent attention
National Assembly Administration and Internal Security Committee chairperson Gabriel Tongoyo said the committee would engage Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and present a preliminary report to the House on Thursday.
"This is a serious matter that requires urgent attention," Mr Tongoyo said.
On June 18, about 20 attackers descended on the school just as students were reporting back for classes.
Armed with pangas, clubs and bows and arrows, they assaulted staff and parents, vandalised offices and made away with cash, mobile phones and other valuables.
In January this year, Agriculture Principal Secretary Kipronoh Rono said the academy was not part of the sugar mill lease agreement and should continue operating independently.
Consequently, a transition team comprising officials from the Ministries of Education and Agriculture, alongside representatives of teachers and parents, was formed to develop a sustainable and accountable management model for the school under the new arrangement.
On June 11, parents held a special general meeting and resolved that the institution should be managed independently through the Chemelil Educational Registered Trustees rather than Chemelil Sugar Company.
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