Secondary school teachers in Kitui county have called for enhanced security after two colleagues were killed in separate incidents in Mutitu North subcounty within three months.
The teachers want justice following the deaths of Frederick Kasingili of Mutitu Girls' Secondary School, who died about three months ago, and Hellen Matuvi of Itiko Secondary School, who was killed last Thursday.
According to police, Matuvi died after being struck with a blunt object while walking home from school.
Her husband was arrested and remains in police custody as investigations continue.
Kasingili was found dead in the house he shared with his spouse.
His wife was charged and is currently out on bond as the case proceeds before the court.
On Tuesday, teachers led by officials of the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet), Kitui branch, staged a peaceful march in Mutitu wa Ndooa trading centre to demand justice for their slain colleagues.
Carrying placards condemning the killings, they marched to the Mutitu North subcounty police headquarters, where they presented a petition to the area police commander, Martha Gitau.
Kitui Kuppet executive secretary Philip Maanzo said the killings had exposed teachers' vulnerability and heightened fears over their safety.
"We have come here to demand justice for our murdered colleagues. Kuppet will not remain silent until justice is served," he said.
Maanzo urged investigators to expedite the two cases and ensure those responsible are held accountable.
"We also call upon the government and the security agencies to guarantee the safety of teachers. They should feel secure while travelling to their work stations, at their places of work and in their homes," he said.
Kitui Kuppet gender affairs secretary Dalphine Mueni urged teachers to resolve family disputes peacefully and avoid situations that could escalate into violence.
"When a marriage reaches a point where it can no longer be salvaged, it is wiser to walk away because life is more important than the marriage itself," she said.
Receiving the petition, Mutitu North subcounty police commander Martha Gitau assured the teachers investigators had gathered substantial evidence in both cases.
She conveyed the National Police Service's condolences and pledged that investigations would be pursued to their conclusion.
"As the National Police Service, we empathise with you over the loss of your colleagues. We will leave no stone unturned until those responsible are brought to justice," Gitau said.
She said both cases are before the courts and explained that one suspect had been released on bond in line with constitutional provisions pending trial.
