Ambira High parents sue school over Ksh.33,000 damages fee imposed after students' strike

In a petition filed before the Constitutional and Human Rights Division, the parents argue that their children were not involved in the unrest that occurred on May 18 and 19, 2026, and should not be punished for actions allegedly carried out by other students.

The parents have sued the school's Chief Principal, the Board of Management, the Principal Secretary for Basic Education and the Teachers Service Commission, claiming that the levy violates the students' constitutional rights to education, fair administrative action, equality and a fair hearing.

According to the court documents, the school suffered extensive damage during the strike, with losses estimated at Ksh.50 million. The petitioners state that during a parents' meeting held on May 21, the principal assured them that Grade 10 learners would not face disciplinary action because they had not participated in the unrest.

However, the parents contend that the school later issued a letter directing all students to report back on June 2 and requiring each learner to contribute Ksh.33,000 towards repairs.

They argue that students whose parents are unable to pay the levy have effectively been locked out of school and denied access to education.

The parents are seeking declarations that the levy is unlawful, orders compelling the school to readmit the affected students unconditionally, and compensation for the alleged violation of their constitutional rights.