HOMA BAY: Ten suspects who were arrested over exam malpractices have been arraigned before a Homa Bay court. The suspects from Pala Masogo Secondary School appeared before Homa Bay Senior Resident Magistrate Christine Auka, where they denied all the charges. According to Kenya News Agency, the accused were identified as Felix Odhiambo, Elijah Otieno, Felix Asero, Seth Polo, Collins Omondi, Jeremiah Otieno, George Ochieng, George Otieno, Maxwell Midimo, and Brenda Yonge. The prosecution, led by Selina Akumat, told the court that on the 4th of this month, the accused disclosed the contents of an examination paper for KCSE Chemistry paper one (number 233/1). The first two suspects faced additional charges. In the second count, they were accused of unauthorized possession of examination papers, contrary to Section 27(1) of the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) Act. In count three, the first eight accused were charged with misuse of examination materials contrary to section 29 of KNEC Act number 29 of 20 12. Eight of the accused were represented by lawyers Albert Ongoso, Victor Nyakwamba, and Lina Obwanda. Mr. Ongoso argued that the suspects had been detained for more than 24 hours before being arraigned, which was illegal. He also highlighted that one of the accused was denied medication, infringing on his rights. The defense contended that the suspects have not been suspended by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and should be allowed to continue with their duties. Prosecutor Celine Akimat requested the court to impose stringent bond terms, expressing concerns that the suspects might boycott court sessions. Magistrate Auka directed the prosecutor to provide the suspects and their defense teams with charge sheets and other relevant documents. The case is set for mention on November 20, 2024.