By Shukri Wachu

The national government has reversed an order to close 15 schools in Mau Forest in evictions targeting over 60, 000 people.

This was announced on Tuesday by Nakuru County Commissioner Erastus Mbui who said the decision was made to allow students sit their national exams.

Mbui announced the government’s about-turn as the Deputy President William Ruto in a separate event warned about disrupting learning in the Mau Forest.

“Every child is entitled to be in school na sio tafadhali. Hiyo ni jukumu ya serikali (It is the government’s mandate to ensure all children access education). Even those in Mau will not be left behind,” Dr Ruto said while at Moi Girls High School in Nairobi.

The commissioner said the locals are free to leave the water tower voluntarily to allow the government to undertake conservation efforts.

Examination for Kenya Certificate of Primary Education is set to begin on October 28.

Last week, Rift Valley Regional Commissioner George Natembeya said the schools were illegally put up using State funds.