School refuses to take back terror suspect
By ARTHUR SITUMA, asituma@ke.nationmedia.comA school in Nairobi has refused to readmit a 17 year-old form three student who was arrested last month in relation to the terrorist attack on Westgate shopping mall.
The Muranga Road Mixed Secondary School head teacher insists the student must produce a counseling certification before being allowed back to class.
This is in spite of the student being released from police custody with no charges against him.
According to Muhsin Ali, his son’s life is yet to return to normal since his release from Pangani Police Station after being detained for ten days. He was released on October 16.
He says he took his son to school two weeks ago when he was informed by the head teacher of the conditions to be met before possible readmission.
“My son is due to sit for his end of year examination on Wednesday, but we are unsure if he will be allowed. That is our worry. I hope the letter from the Westlands NGO offering him counseling comes today (Monday),” said Ali.
“I am aware of a board member at the school who is totally opposed to my son’s readmission. I pray that the relevant authorities act to save the future of this young man who is ready to continue his education despite the obstacle,” added Ali.
During his ten day detention, the 17 year-old was periodically moved from Kilimani police station to Pangani police station.
Upon release, the police gave the family no explanation for the detention.
The family said it will not purse reasons for the detention but will focus on their son’s education.