Azimio leaders slam Ruto's education policy, warn of Higher Education crisis

As university students across the country prepare for mass protests starting Monday, September 2nd, the model has been condemned for creating a discriminatory barrier to higher education.

The Azimio Principals have expressed their support for the students' concerns, questioning the practicality of the new funding system. 

The leaders argue that, in its current form, the model poses a significant threat to children from vulnerable families, potentially denying them access to higher education.

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka voiced his disapproval, stating, "Mambo ambayo hayawezi kukubalika kama hiyo muundo mpya wa university tulisema doesn't work," emphasizing that the new model is unacceptable and ineffective.

Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni echoed this sentiment, warning that without proper oversight, the changes in the education system could reverse progress made in free education under former President Mwai Kibaki. 

"Tumesema mambo ya elimu tusipichunga basi hatutaweza kuenda shule free education ilianzishwa na Kibaki ilikuwa isaidie watu wote uwe maskini au tajiri," Kioni remarked.

DAP-K Party Leader Eugene Wamalwa also criticized the rising costs of education under the new model, highlighting the financial strain on families. 

"Kugharamaia shule imekuwa shule sasa kupeleka chuo kikuu sasa ni shida kubwa sababu naambiwa siju," Wamalwa noted.

In addition to their concerns about education, the Azimio leaders also condemned President William Ruto's proposal to arm National Youth Service recruits, calling it a dangerous tactic to suppress dissenting opinions. 

"Ili kuhakikisha kwamba hakuna maandamano hakuna Kenya mzima sasa wanataka kutumia National Youth Service hiyo hatutakubali it is clear," said Kalonzo Musyoka, firmly opposing the plan.

On the political front, Kalonzo accused President Ruto of using his recent visit to Nyanza and political maneuvers with Raila Odinga as mere tactics to gain an advantage in the 2027 presidential elections. 

Kalonzo vowed to counter these plans, signaling a continued political battle leading up to the next election.