EMBU — The Democratic Congress Party (DCP), affiliated with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has threatened to lead mass student protests if the government fails to disburse school capitation funds by August 8. Addressing residents during a public rally in Embu County, DCP Secretary General Cleopas Malala issued a direct ultimatum to President William Ruto’s administration. DCP SG Malala accused the government of sabotaging free education program and warned that party leaders and supporters would march to State House if funds are not released within a week.
“This is not about a budget shortfall,” Malala declared. “It is about theft, ghost schools, and leadership that has lost focus. Learners are suffering while public money disappears into shadows.”
The rally held to rally public support for DCP ahead of 2027 general elections after the release of Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji from police custody, aimed sharp criticism at the government over the free education dissolution remarks by CS Mbadi who cited that the government is unable to fund the free education program .MP Mukunji had been arrested in connection with the recent Saba Saba demonstrations, which led to dozens of detentions countrywide.
Nyandarua Senator John Methu joined Malala in criticizing the government’s silence on the delayed funds ,He said mismanagement and poor advice from the president’s inner circle were undermining education priorities. “We won’t allow the education sector to be slowly starved while corrupt cartels thrive,” Senator Methu said.
A cross-section of elected leaders from both sides of the aisle voiced similar concerns. Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa, Kajiado North MP Onesmus Ngogoyo, Naivasha MP Jane Kihara, Mukurweini MP John Kaguchia, and Kathiani MP Robert Mbui all demanded immediate action from the Treasury.
Manyatta MP Mukunji, speaking after his release, described the crisis as a ticking time bomb. “This isn’t just about money. It’s about protecting the dignity and future of Kenya’s children,” Mukunji said.
The education sector was allocated over KSh700 billion in this year’s budget. Yet reports from public school heads indicate funds for operations and basic supplies have yet to be disbursed, placing pressure on parents and disrupting learning.
As the August deadline approaches, the government faces growing resistance from opposition leaders, civil society, and education stakeholders. The mounting outcry could mark a turning point in what Malala called a betrayal of the national promise of free, quality education.
Whether the administration meets the deadline remains unclear. But the DCP has made its position known: no money, no peace.
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