Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina has condemned the alleged defilement of deaf pupils at Kerugoya School for the Deaf, describing the incident as a grave violation of children’s rights and dignity.

In a statement shared on her X account, the legislator expressed outrage following reports that a 43-year-old male teacher at the institution had allegedly defiled two learners, including an eight-year-old PP2 pupil.

“Our office is deeply saddened and outraged by the reported cases of defilement of minors at Kerugoya School for the Deaf perpetrated by a male teacher at the institution,” she stated.

She termed the allegations a serious betrayal of trust, especially given that the victims are children living with disabilities.

“These allegations represent a grave violation of the rights, dignity, and safety of children, particularly children who are abled differently,” she said.

According to the young girl’s mother, the child attempted to communicate that something was wrong while returning home for midterm break.

“Nilipoendea mtoto shule, alikuwa anajaribu kucommunicate kwangu akiniambia kitu ilikuwa imemhappenia,” she revealed while speaking to Citizen TV.

“Tukiwa kwa njia ndio alikuwa ananiambia ako in deep pain through sign language. Tulipofika nyumbani ndio nikamuangalia nini ilikuwa imefanyika juu alikuwa anacomplain sanaa, kuangalia ndio nikapata mtoto ako red huko kwa njia yake ya uzazi,” she continued.

Medical tests later confirmed abuse. “Tulipofanya tests, ikasemekana ni ukweli alikuwa amerapiwa,” the mother revealed, adding that a doctor indicated the abuse may not have been a one-time incident.

“Daktari anasema hii sio mara ya kwanza mtoto wangu amefanyiwa hii tendo, imefanyika several times,” the mother revealed.

Hon. Maina emphasized that schools must remain safe spaces for learners. “Schools are meant to be safe spaces that nurture growth, learning, and development. Any act of sexual abuse within such an institution is not only criminal but also a profound betrayal of trust,” she stated.

She confirmed that her office is working closely with authorities to ensure accountability. “Our office is currently liaising with the relevant authorities to ensure that the matter is thoroughly investigated and that appropriate action is taken without delay,” she said.

“We expect a swift, transparent, and impartial process that guarantees justice for the affected students.”