A Lusaka parent has sued Nkhwazi Primary School in the Lusaka High Court, alleging that a member of staff emotionally and psychologically harmed his grade 6 daughter by allegedly demanding a kiss from her in circumstances described in court documents as having sexual undertones.
According to the statement of claim, the father, identified as DT to protect the identity of the minor, has filed the lawsuit on behalf of his daughter, MT, and is seeking K2 million in exemplary and aggravated damages from the school over the alleged conduct of its employee, Leeroy Phiri.
The lawsuit also seeks damages for vicarious liability, negligence, breach of statutory duty, special damages, interest and legal costs.
DT alleges that Mr. Phiri, a swimming teacher at the school, isolated the pupil from her friends, took her to the school hall and allegedly made the inappropriate request between January 20 and February 10, 2026.
The father claims the incident left the child with severe emotional distress, anxiety, trauma and psychological harm.
Court documents further state that the school had a duty to safeguard the child’s welfare and provide a safe learning environment but allegedly failed to properly supervise its staff.
The claim also alleges that school authorities did not immediately inform the parents and instead instructed the child to keep the matter secret.
DT further contends that school management was aware of the incident for several weeks but allegedly failed to remove Mr. Phiri from the premises, suspend him or arrange counselling for the child.
The lawsuit claims the school prioritized its reputation over the pupil’s welfare and psychological well-being.
-PHOENIX NEWS