People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua has criticised the government over delays in releasing capitation funds to schools, warning that the situation is straining both parents and learning institutions as the second term gets underway.
Speaking on Sunday at Kiamutugu Catholic Church in Gichugu, Kirinyaga County, Karua said it was worrying that schools were reopening without receiving the funds needed to support their operations. She noted that public schools were expected to admit learners while still grappling with financial uncertainty, raising questions about how they would sustain basic services.
Karua also took issue with the government’s spending priorities, arguing that funds appear to be available for other activities while the education sector continues to face delays. She pointed to what she described as unnecessary expenditure, saying such resources could instead be directed toward ensuring schools run smoothly.
Her remarks come even as the Ministry of Education announced the release of KSh 23.4 billion to support learners across public institutions. According to the ministry, the allocation includes KSh 15,000 per learner in junior secondary schools, KSh 22,244 for each secondary school student, and KSh 1,424 for those in primary schools. Despite this, school administrators have continued to raise concerns over delays in disbursement, warning that the funding gaps are already affecting daily learning activities.
Beyond education, Karua criticised the Social Health Authority (SHA), saying many Kenyans are yet to benefit from the system despite continued public spending. She argued that resources should be channelled toward improving healthcare services so that citizens can access effective and affordable treatment.
She also raised concerns over political intolerance, accusing some leaders of using organised groups to disrupt meetings and influence public opinion. Karua called for a more open political environment where citizens can make independent decisions without pressure or interference.
Karua further positioned herself as a strong opponent of corruption, signalling her readiness to confront graft and push for accountability in public service. At the same time, she appealed to leaders to exercise restraint in their public remarks, stressing the need for respectful and issue-based engagement.
She emphasised that leadership should be grounded in service and integrity rather than competition over wealth or influence, calling on leaders to prioritise the needs of citizens.
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By Robai Ludenyi