MP Bensouda Wants Corporal Punishment Back in Schools
A Kenyan lawmaker has reignited a deeply divisive debate. Specifically, Homa Bay Woman Representative Joyce Osogo, also known as Bensouda, urged the Ministry of Education on June 15, 2026, to consider reintroducing corporal punishment in schools.
Furthermore, she argued that the absence of strict disciplinary measures has left teachers unequipped to manage rising student unrest and indiscipline.
Why Osogo Says Teachers Need More Power
Osogo framed her argument around restoring respect in classrooms. Specifically, she stated that teachers should not have to “sing lullabies” to children who view them as peers rather than authority figures.
Furthermore, she emphasised that managing students has become significantly harder following the structural shift to comprehensive junior secondary schools.
Pointing to Extreme Cases
The lawmaker did not limit her argument to minor classroom disruptions. Specifically, she pointed to instances where students have burned down schools in the presence of their own parents.
Therefore, she argued that responding leniently to such acts amounts to seeking the opinion of a criminal.
Conditions Attached to the Proposal
Osogo’s proposal is not unconditional. Specifically, she stated that implementation should be supported entirely by parents through public participation.
Additionally, she called on human rights commissions to back the initiative to ensure discipline remains properly regulated.
The Legal Reality
This proposal faces a significant constitutional obstacle. Specifically, Article 29 of the Constitution of Kenya guarantees every person the right to freedom and security, including protection from corporal punishment and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment.
Furthermore, Section 36 of the Basic Education Act explicitly prohibits subjecting any pupil to torture, physical abuse, or psychological and mental harassment.
