Muhoroni: Parents of learners at Chemelil Sugar Academy in Muhoroni Sub County, Kisumu County, have threatened to seek legal redress over a management dispute that has stalled the school’s reopening.

According to Kenya News Agency, the academy, a top-performing mixed boarding high school located within the Chemelil sugar factory precincts, began experiencing an operational and governance crisis following a change in administration on November 1, 2025. This transition was prompted by the entry of Kibos Sugar and Allied Industries as an investor to operate the sugar factory under a 30-year lease agreement.

Leading the charge is the Parents Association chairperson, Frederick Otieno, who accused the new management of lacking transparency and accountability, particularly in decisions impacting the school. Otieno emphasized that the exclusion of parents from crucial decision-making processes has adversely affected the welfare and academic progress of the students.

Another concerned parent, Moses Abiero, alleged that the new administration had implemented salary reductions and staff dismissals, actions that he claimed fostered a hostile learning environment and diminished morale among both students and employees. Abiero cited an example of a long-serving cook, whose salary was slashed from Sh65,000 to Sh32,000, despite 22 years of service.

Abiero further expressed that parents’ efforts to engage with the new management had been futile, leaving them with no alternative but to pursue court action to safeguard the interests of the learners. Edith Osire, another parent, declared that they would persist in advocating for reforms until the school’s management exhibits openness, responsibility, and a definitive commitment to the students’ welfare.