Tragedy in Makueni: Family Seeks Justice for Drowned Student

A heartbreaking incident has shaken Makueni County after a Form Two student drowned in a school’s swimming pool on Saturday, February 8, 2025. The tragedy has not only left a family in mourning but has also raised serious concerns about the school’s transparency and accountability.

Delayed Notification: A Family in Shock

The student’s family alleges that the school failed to inform them immediately about their son’s death. Shockingly, they only learned of the incident nearly three days later, on Monday, February 10, at 5 pm. At that point, they were urgently summoned to the school and informed that their son had been found by police in a critical condition. The delayed communication has sparked outrage, with the family demanding answers about why they were not informed earlier.

Post-Mortem Controversy: School vs. Family

As the grieving family sought clarity through a post-mortem examination, new challenges arose. The family had arranged for a pathologist to conduct the procedure, but the school reportedly intervened, rejecting the family’s choice and requesting a government pathologist instead. This dispute led to the postponement of the examination, now scheduled for Tuesday, February 18. The family believes this move was an attempt to interfere with the investigation, further deepening their distress.

Authorities’ Involvement and Response

The hospital’s medical superintendent explained that officials from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) requested a government pathologist, which caused the delay. Meanwhile, the school’s owner justified the decision, citing a lack of trust in the family’s appointed pathologist. However, the family disputes this claim, maintaining that they deserve a fair and transparent process to establish the truth behind their son’s tragic death.

A Call for Transparency and Justice

This incident has sparked public outrage, with many questioning the school’s handling of the tragedy and the authorities’ role in the matter. The family, together with concerned citizens, is now calling for a thorough and independent investigation to ensure justice is served. The unanswered questions surrounding the student’s death continue to weigh heavily on his loved ones, who remain determined to uncover the truth.

As this story unfolds, it highlights the urgent need for schools to prioritize student safety and communicate openly with families in times of crisis. The public will be watching closely to see how this case is handled and whether justice will be served for the young life lost too soon.