Former National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi has called for the abolition of the country’s multiple bursary systems, saying the current structure is ineffective and continues to fail thousands of needy students across Kenya.

Speaking in Mbeere North on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, shortly after accompanying Newton Karish to present his nomination papers to the IEBC, Muturi said the existing bursary framework, controlled separately by MPs, Governors, and MCAs, has become a patchwork of inefficiency and corruption that denies many deserving children access to education.

“Let’s be honest: bursaries are not working. Every MP, Governor, and MCA has a bursary fund, yet thousands of needy children still miss out on education.” Muturi said

He argued that the only lasting solution is to merge all existing bursary programs into one national education fund that would guarantee free and fair access for all learners, regardless of their background or location.

“The solution is simple: abolish the multiple bursary systems and consolidate all that money into one national education fund to make education completely free,” Muturi stated

Muturi went further to challenge President William Ruto’s administration to demonstrate integrity and fiscal discipline, saying that Kenya has the capacity to make education free for every child if public resources are managed honestly.

“And yes, it’s possible, if only President William Ruto and his government stop stealing from the public purse, Kenya has enough resources; what we lack is honesty and discipline in leadership,” he said

Muturi’s remarks come at a time when parents and students across the country continue to decry delays and inequities in bursary allocations.

He emphasised that the education sector should not be treated as a political tool, urging leaders to prioritise long-term structural reform over short-term appeasement.

“Let’s fix the system, not patch it. Let’s invest in our children, not in corruption. A new Kenya is possible, and it begins with truth.” Muturi stated