Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has raised serious concerns over how funds meant for the education sector are being used by the current administration.
While speaking during a recent visit to the United States, Gachagua accused President William Ruto and his Deputy Kithure Kindiki of mismanaging and redirecting money that should be helping Kenyan students.
Gachagua reminded Kenyans that Ruto had once promised, during his time as Deputy President, to expand the free education program to include all secondary school students. However, Gachagua now questions why the President has backtracked on that pledge and is seemingly doing the opposite of what he promised.
These remarks come shortly after Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi announced during the presentation of the 2025/2026 national budget that the government is finding it increasingly difficult to fund the free education programme. Mbadi cited growing student numbers and budget limitations as key reasons behind the financial strain.
Gachagua believes the issue isn’t a lack of funds but rather mismanagement. He accused Ruto’s close advisers of influencing him to channel the funds meant for education into what he described as unnecessary and costly political roadshows and development tours.
In a bold claim, Gachagua alleged that huge sums of money allocated to education are being withdrawn in cash and handed over directly to government officials to sponsor their frequent travels across the country. He even stated that some of the funds are being used to fuel the helicopters seen flying politicians from one event to another.
“Instead of using the money to build schools and support students, it’s being used to fly around in helicopters. This money is being misused, and it’s coming directly from the education budget,” Gachagua said.
He urged the Kenya Kwanza leadership not to destroy the legacy of former President Mwai Kibaki, who is credited with introducing free primary education in Kenya — a move that transformed millions of lives.
However, in response to rising public concern, the Ministry of Education stepped in to clarify the government’s position. Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok assured parents that the free education policy remains firmly in place and that there are no plans to stop funding public primary and secondary schools.
Bitok clarified that the remarks by the Treasury CS were taken out of context, insisting that the government remains committed to financing education through capitation — the system through which schools receive government funds to support students.
“The free education policy has not changed. The government will continue to support learners through funding, just like it has done over the years,” Bitok said, seeking to ease the worries of anxious parents and guardians.
Join Gen Z New WhatsApp Channel To Stay Updated On time https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
