Babu Owino, the Member of Parliament for Embakasi East, was notably absent from President William Ruto’s town hall meeting held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) to discuss the new University Funding Model.
Owino, known for his advocacy for university students, claimed he was blocked from entering the event.
This restriction on Owino’s entry raised eyebrows, especially considering his strong stance on issues impacting student welfare.
His absence was particularly conspicuous as he has openly criticized the new funding model, labeling it as a financial burden on students and calling it a threat to accessible education.
In his remarks leading up to the event, Owino urged student leaders to challenge the funding model, calling for affordable and equitable access to education for all.
His exclusion appeared to follow this outspoken criticism, suggesting a possible attempt to limit dissenting voices at the event.
Despite Owino’s absence, President Ruto continued with the meeting, emphasizing the model’s intended benefits, particularly in expanding educational opportunities across Kenya.
The government has not released any official comment on why Owino was denied entry.
The incident has stirred debate on social media, with many questioning whether the decision to block Owino was politically motivated, given his vocal opposition to the current administration’s policies on education reform
