Gachagua Breaks Silence on Mt Kenya School Placement, Says His Call Was for Fairness, Not Favouritism

Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua has defended his remarks on student placement in Mt Kenya. He says his message was misunderstood. He insists his call was about fairness. Not division.

Gachagua spoke during public meetings in Nyeri and Nyandarua counties on Thursday, January 8. He said his comments were taken out of context. He explained that national schools serve all Kenyans. However, he argued that local students should not be ignored.

According to Gachagua, equality must be clear and practical. He said learners from communities hosting national schools deserve fair consideration. Just like students from other regions. He added that fairness should apply everywhere.

He said frustration is rising among Mt Kenya residents. He noted that many communities donated land for national schools. Others contributed resources. Yet, he claimed, their children are now being sidelined.

Gachagua said this situation feels unfair. He argued that local learners often meet the required standards. Still, they miss out. Meanwhile, students from far-off regions get admitted.

To support his claim, he gave an example. He said a local student can score higher marks and still be rejected. At the same time, a learner with lower marks from another area is accepted. He said this raises serious concerns.

Even so, Gachagua repeated that national schools belong to all Kenyans. He said he does not oppose diversity. Instead, he supports balance. He stressed that qualified local students should compete equally.

His remarks sparked sharp criticism. Leaders allied to the Kenya Kwanza government reacted quickly. They accused him of politicising education. Others said he was stirring ethnic emotions.

President William Ruto also weighed in. He dismissed claims of bias. He said school placement must remain free from tribal influence. He insisted that all children deserve equal access.

Gachagua responded strongly. He questioned the president’s moral authority. He accused Ruto of failing young people over the years. He said leaders should not lecture others on children’s welfare.

He then turned to the youth. Gachagua said young Kenyans feel ignored. He claimed they would shape the country’s future. He urged them to register as voters.

He predicted the youth would be decisive in the 2027 General Election. He said their voices would matter. He said fairness today would shape tomorrow.