The Democratic Congress Party (DCP) has issued a stern ultimatum to the government, warning of nationwide student-led protests if capitation funds are not disbursed to schools within the next week. Speaking during a charged rally in Embu County, DCP Secretary General Cleopas Malala called on President William Ruto to ensure the funds reach schools by August 8 or face massive demonstrations, including a symbolic march to State House.
Malala accused the Kenya Kwanza administration of deliberately sabotaging the country’s free education agenda, claiming the delays are not due to lack of funds but systemic corruption and skewed budgetary priorities.
“This is not a question of lack of funds, it’s a question of corruption and misplaced priorities. We are seeing money being allocated to ghost schools while learners across the country suffer,” Malala said to an energized crowd.
The rally also marked the return of Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, who was recently released from police custody following his arrest on terrorism-related charges tied to the recent Saba Saba protests. Mukunji strongly criticized the government’s handling of the education sector, describing the crisis as a threat to the country’s future.
“This is not just about money, it’s about the soul of our nation. We must protect the next generation,” he said.
Senator John Methu of Nyandarua echoed these sentiments, accusing President Ruto’s advisors of misleading him on the urgency and importance of adequately funding schools. He vowed that the opposition would resist any further attempts to cripple the education sector.
A chorus of bipartisan leaders joined in the condemnation of the delayed funds, including Senators Joe Nyutu (Murang’a), Karungo wa Thang’wa (Kiambu), and MPs Onesmus Ngogoyo (Kajiado North), Jane Kihara (Naivasha), John Kaguchia (Mukurweini), and Robert Mbui (Kathiani). They warned of dire consequences for the country’s education system if the issue is not addressed immediately.
As the August 8 deadline looms, pressure is mounting on the government to act swiftly. With schools struggling to operate and parents growing increasingly anxious, the threat of mass protests adds a new layer of urgency to the education funding crisis.
