Parliament is considering a review of the ban on corporal punishment with a view to reintroducing it in schools, Gem Member of Parliament Elisha Odhiambo has revealed.

Odhiambo stated that it is high time the policy on corporal punishment is re-evaluated, pointing to a worrying surge in school arson cases that have tragically led to the deaths of innocent students.

The lawmaker was speaking at the Wagai Primary School grounds in Gem constituency, Siaya County, during the disbursement of education bursaries from the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NGCDF).

The Gem legislator emphasized that Kenya cannot afford to compromise on societal discipline, urging politicians to take the lead in addressing the issue.

“We must have a disciplined society,” Odhiambo said. “It is alarming that most politicians are keeping quiet on this matter, and it is only the President who has spoken out about it.”

At the same time, the MP challenged the church and other religious organizations to actively engage parents and children to address what he termed as “decaying morality” in the country.

“I am calling on all churches in Kenya to spark a conversation around our children burning schools,” he said. “During our days in school, we never witnessed the kind of destruction happening today.”

He further urged parents to step up and fully embrace their parental responsibilities.

“If teachers are not allowed to cane students in school, then parents must take up the mantle and discipline their children at home,” the legislator asserted. “I am who I am today because I was caned and disciplined.”

Shifting to regional politics, Odhiambo called on Siaya residents to rally behind President William Ruto, stating that the Head of State is deeply committed to delivering development across all corners of the country.

“We are supporting him because he is a leader who understands and practices equity, ensuring that the entire country moves forward together in development,” he concluded.