Saitabao Kanchory slams Ruto over education failures
By Kiprono Keileb, January 20, 2026Former presidential chief agent of the late Raila Odinga in the 2022 poll, Saitabao Kanchory, has strongly criticised President William Ruto’s government over what he describes as failures in Kenya’s education sector.
In a statement shared on X on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, Kanchory warned that the current state of the sector could have long-term consequences for the nation.
He highlighted the contrast between President Ruto’s own educational success and the difficulties faced by ordinary Kenyans today.
“The irony is that if William Ruto grew up in a country led by William Ruto, he would not have been able to afford the education he got for free and would possibly still be selling chickens in Sugoi bus station,” Saitabao Kanchory wrote.
Kanchory warned that the challenges in the education system are not temporary and could affect future generations.
“Of all the messes this regime has created, the mess in the education sector will haunt this nation for generations to come,” Part of Saitabao Kanchory’s statement reads.
He stressed that access to quality education is a basic right, and neglecting it undermines national development and social mobility. Kanchory pointed out that millions of students in Kenya, particularly in rural areas, are struggling to access schools, proper learning materials, and trained teachers.
He argued that the government’s failure to prioritise education threatens the country’s long-term economic prospects and the creation of a skilled workforce.
Students disadvantaged
Kanchory has urged that tuition fees, infrastructure deficits in schools, and shortages of teachers have left many students disadvantaged.
“The situation in schools, colleges, and universities needs urgent intervention. The government must ensure that every child has access to affordable, quality education to secure Kenya’s future,” Part of Saitabao Kanchory’s statement reads.
Kanchory say that unless meaningful reforms are introduced quickly, inequality will widen, and many young Kenyans could be left behind, unable to compete in an increasingly knowledge-based economy.
“This is not just about policy; it is about the future of our youth and the trajectory of our nation. Education must be protected, funded, and managed effectively for generations to come,” Saitabao Kanchory wrote.