By Daniel Otieno, Kakamega
A section of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders has strongly condemned Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi’s proposal to slash capitation funds for schools, warning that the move threatens to reverse hard-won gains in access to education championed by the likes of Mwai Kibaki and Raila Odinga.
Led by Public Accounts Committee Chairperson Tindi Mwale, the leaders said reducing education funding would deal a blow to millions of learners who rely on government support to access basic and secondary education.
“We will stand for what benefits the public. We cannot applaud Mbadi for slashing education funds just because he is one of us. He will be summoned and must be held accountable for this decision,” said Mwale, adding that ODM must defend public interest with the same spirit that guided the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
The backlash follows a Treasury indication that current capitation levels may not be sustainable, raising alarm that the government could roll back the free education policy. The signal has sparked outrage across political and public spheres.
Innocent Mugabe, another ODM legislator, urged party leader Raila Odinga to intervene and stop the proposed cuts. “Baba, we ask you to intervene. Education funds should never be tampered with. Let the government cut other areas, but not the money that supports needy students. That is non-negotiable,” he said.
ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna joined in criticizing the proposal, pointing to the growing burden on students and parents. “Are we giving today’s children the same opportunity we had? In 2002, I paid KSh 6,000 for accommodation and KSh 18,000 per year. Today, students are being asked to pay KSh 43,000. Is this fair?” he posed.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir emphasized that education must remain a national priority. “It is not a dream that Kenya has had free education — it is a reality. Mbadi must understand that he cannot kill the dreams of 16 million children who rely on it,” he said.
Governor Nassir also questioned the government’s spending priorities. “From June last year to May this year, the government collected KSh 88 billion for affordable housing. If they anticipate KSh 96 billion next, then let them redirect some of that to fund education. Our children have a right to learn.”
The leaders warned that any attempt to reduce education funding would face strong resistance in Parliament and on the ground, as it touches on one of the most critical pillars of Kenya’s social development.
