The Democratic Congress Party (DCP) has issued a sharp rebuke to the government over the delayed disbursement of school capitation funds, warning of nationwide student-led protests should the funds fail to reach schools within the next seven days.

DCP Secretary General Cleopas Malala, speaking at a politically charged rally in Embu County, gave President William Ruto until August 8 to act or face mass demonstrations, including a planned march to State House.

The rally doubled as a reception for Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, who was recently freed from police custody following his arrest on terrorism-related charges linked to the Saba Saba demonstrations.

In his address, Malala accused the Kenya Kwanza administration of undermining Kenya’s free education policy, alleging that public education was being deliberately starved of funds.

He lamented what he described as gross financial mismanagement and skewed priorities within government.

“This is not about a cash crunch. It’s about corruption and bad governance. Money is being directed to ghost institutions while real learners go without,” Malala charged.

Nyandarua Senator John Methu echoed the outrage, vowing that the opposition would not allow further neglect of the education sector. He blamed close presidential allies for misadvising the Head of State on the critical need for sustained investment in education.

Several other leaders present also voiced their disapproval, warning of dire consequences for Kenya’s education system. Those who spoke out included Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa, Kajiado North MP Onesmus Ngogoyo, Naivasha MP Jane Kihara, Mukurweini MP John Kaguchia, and Kathiani MP Robert Mbui. All decried the budgetary cuts to capitation, calling for urgent government intervention.

MP Mukunji, making his first public appearance since his release, said the education crisis transcended finances, warning it posed a significant threat to the country’s future.

“This isn’t just a funding issue. It’s about the very soul of this nation. We owe it to our children to secure their future,” said Mukunji.

As the August 8 deadline approaches, pressure continues to mount on the Ruto administration from both opposition figures and civil society groups, demanding the immediate restoration of funding to prevent further disruption in learning across the country.