President Ruto condemns use of students for political drama
The President urged education stakeholders to continue supporting learners in various areas, saying the youth should be given room to grow and explore their talents without being used for political schemes.
President William Ruto has condemned what he termed as deliberate efforts by some leaders to drag students into political confrontations, promising stern action against those behind such attempts.
The President made the remarks while hosting the 2025 Kenya National Drama and Film Festival winners at State House in Nakuru, where he strongly cautioned against politicising school activities and manipulating learners.
"As leaders, parents, and teachers, we will not allow the minds of children to be corrupted. We must protect children from predators who want to corrupt them with negative ethnicity and politics. We will deal with such people decisively," Ruto said on Thursday.
The statement appeared to refer to the recent controversy involving Echoes of War, a play that was removed from this year’s national drama festival despite qualifying.
The play, written by former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, was meant to be performed by students from Butere Girls High School.
The students, accompanied by police to the venue in Nakuru, refused to stage the play, instead choosing to sing the National Anthem and walk off in protest.
Tensions rose as police officers fired teargas to disperse a crowd outside the venue, causing confusion and forcing the students back onto their bus.
The President urged education stakeholders to continue supporting learners in various areas, saying the youth should be given room to grow and explore their talents without being used for political schemes.
"I urge parents and teachers to continue supporting learners in sports, arts, and academics and enable them realise their dreams," Ruto said.
He also affirmed the government's commitment to delivering quality education across the country.
"My administration will ensure our children get the best education. Teachers, instructors, and education managers must ensure every child receives quality education," Ruto said.
The President highlighted that 470 drama tutors had been promoted following a directive issued in 2023, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen arts and education in Kenya.
He pledged continued investment in learning institutions to help children discover their full potential.
"There is more to celebrate than negativity. I will not allow this beautiful country to go down the drain because of leaders who want to satisfy their selfish agendas," Ruto added.