“We Will Not Encourage Any Malpractice”: Cheating Storm Hits KCSE as Narok Headteacher Suspended

The 2025 KCSE exams started on November 3 under tight security and close monitoring. However, the calm quickly faded as cheating allegations surfaced in Narok and Kajiado, forcing authorities to act fast.

In Narok County, a headteacher was suspended for breaching Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) rules. County Education Director Apollo Apuko confirmed the move, saying the teacher had ignored exam guidelines. He added that the deputy headteacher would take charge while investigations continue. Apuko stressed that exam integrity must be protected at all costs.

In Kajiado County, two students from Merishaw School were arrested over suspected exam irregularities. Seven teachers from the same school were also questioned by police. The arrests raised alarm over growing exam fraud and pressure for top grades.

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba, while inspecting exams in Kwale County, warned that individuals caught cheating would face punishment. He said schools would no longer be penalized for the mistakes of a few. “Nobody should be seen with a phone in an exam centre. We will not encourage any malpractice,” Ogamba said. He added that accountability would now rest on those directly involved in cheating.

Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Igonga echoed the warning. While in Kakamega County, he vowed to prosecute anyone caught aiding or engaging in exam malpractice. “We will not encourage any malpractice. We will prosecute anyone found involved; from the lowest to the highest,” he warned.

Meanwhile, floods and landslides in Elgeyo Marakwet did not stop the exams. The government used helicopters to deliver exam papers to cut-off areas, ensuring all candidates sat their papers on time.

The Ministry of Education has assured the public that this year’s KCSE exams will remain credible and transparent. Officials have intensified surveillance nationwide to prevent further cheating cases and protect the integrity of the examination process.