Maraga outlines education reforms he will implement if elected president
By Mabonga Makhanu, January 14, 2026Former Chief Justice David Maraga has unveiled an education reform plan he says he will implement if elected president.
Speaking during a press briefing held at his party headquarters on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, the United Green Movement (UGM) flag bearer said that if given the opportunity to form a government, he would establish what he termed an “Okatiba government” grounded in the rule of law.
Maraga said education would be treated as a national duty under his administration, with public funds directed toward meeting the actual needs of learners rather than serving the interests of officials.
“And a national duty under an okatiba government public funds will follow learners’ needs, not the greed of officials. Education financing will be transparent, predictable and accountable. Management for children will reach classrooms, not disappear into bureaucracy and patronage networks.”
He stated that education financing would be transparent, predictable, and accountable, ensuring that resources meant for children reach classrooms instead of being lost in bureaucracy and patronage networks.
He noted that teachers remain overstretched, under-supported, and largely excluded from education reform processes, warning that no education system can function effectively without motivated, prepared, and respected teachers. Maraga said restoring dignity to the teaching profession would be a fundamental priority, adding that teachers must be paid adequately and on time.
On infrastructure, Maraga highlighted persistent challenges, including overcrowded classrooms, inadequate laboratories, and insufficient learning materials. He said these conditions continue to undermine education quality across the country, with a child’s chances of success still largely determined by factors such as family income, geographical location, disability, and gender.
Dandora case
Maraga pointed to situations in areas such as Dandora, where some classrooms accommodate up to 160 pupils, making effective learning impossible. He also cited continued media reports of children learning under trees, describing the situation as unacceptable but predictable in a system weakened by corruption and poor governance.
He argued that corruption has become entrenched in government operations, directly affecting service delivery in critical sectors such as education. Maraga maintained that his proposed Okatiba government would prioritise integrity, accountability, and equal opportunity to ensure every child receives quality education regardless of background.
This comes days after being granted the United Green Movement (UGM) party ticket to challenge President William Ruto in 2027