Closure of all schools will affect generations, says Moi

Baringo Senator Gideon Moi (C) with Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto (right)

Two respected leaders from Rift Valley have asked the government to reconsider its stand on closure of public and private schools.

Baringo Senator Gideon Moi and Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto warned that the move would drag back an entire generation of young Kenyans who are relying on education to improve their lives.

“I’m opposed to the directive by the government to close all schools. This will negatively affect the lives of an entire generation. The Government must dialogue with teachers,” said Gideon.

Speaking yesterday at Emurwa Dikirr constituency, Narok County during a fundraiser, Gideon faulted the manner in which the Government had handled the crisis precipitated by the teachers’ strike.

On his part, Ruto said if the Jubilee government is unable to manage the country’s education sector; it should admit it rather than ruin the future of innocent children.

“This is the first time in independent Kenya that schools have been closed without a valid reason. These leaders should resign if they have no solutions to the problems facing Kenyans,” said Ruto.

On matters politics, Gideon refuted claims that he was opposed to Deputy President William Ruto’s leadership and noted that they only differed on ideology. Gideon pointed out that as a community, they were not interested in political rhetoric and would focus on development issues that can improve the lives of Kenyans.

“People are talking of 2022 when our people have more pressing needs now. These are the things that we want addressed,” said Gideon.

Governor Ruto dismissed those who had accused him having ill motives against the deputy president and stated that he wishes him well, especially in regard to the case he faces in the ICC. “I have continuously prayed for the DP and anyone imagining otherwise is not honest. I have accompanied Ruto to The Hague and for some people to accuse me is totally preposterous,” said the Bomet governor. Others present were Narok Senator Stephen Ntutu, Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ng’eno and Kanu Secretary General Nick Salat. Ng’eno criticised National Assembly Majority Leader Adan Duale whom he accused of continuously disrespecting Kalenjin leaders.