Former Roots Party Deputy Leader Justina Wamae has said that offering free university education in Kenya is unrealistic, describing it as a political lie that does not align with the country’s current economic situation.
In a statement shared on Friday, October 24, 2025, Wamae argued that Kenya’s focus should be on building a strong economy that enables parents to comfortably pay school fees, rather than relying on government promises.
“ANYBODY PROMISING YOU FREE EDUCATION, INCLUDING UNIVERSITY EDUCATION, IS LYING!” Wamae wrote on X.
She explained that during her studies in both private and public universities, school fees paid by students were essential in keeping institutions running. “Even when I did my Master’s in a public university, the school fees paid still talked for me,” she said, underscoring the importance of financial contribution to sustain universities.
Wamae also touched on the motivation behind student leadership, saying many student leaders are driven by poverty rather than a genuine desire to represent their peers. She argued that poverty pushes students to accept government incentives, adding that the issue is not new.
She drew comparisons with previous administrations, claiming that during Moi’s era, student leaders received state payments to weaken activism, while later governments saw opposition and NGOs fund student movements.
According to Wamae, Kenya must shift from populist promises to policy-driven governance. She urged leaders to focus on creating an environment where citizens can afford education independently.
“It’s time for Kenyans to pay school or university fees so that institutions can pay their bills, including lecturers’ salaries,” she wrote.
Wamae concluded by calling for “new thinking” and a lean government, insisting that realistic policies, not political slogans, will secure the future of Kenya’s education sector.
