The United Opposition has accused the Kenyan government of misleading young people with promises of overseas jobs, only for some of them to end up in active conflict zones in Russia.
Speaking during a church service in Nyandarua County, opposition leaders said the government had acted irresponsibly in handling foreign employment programmes. They claimed that youths who believed they were going abroad for work were instead exposed to dangerous military areas.
The leaders demanded the immediate recall of all Kenyan youths reportedly sent to Russia, saying their safety and lives were at risk. They warned that families were living in fear due to unclear information about the whereabouts and conditions of their loved ones.
Democratic Change Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua urged President William Ruto to personally intervene and order the return of the affected youths. He said reports of Kenyan youths losing their lives in the conflict were deeply troubling and blamed the government for failing to protect its citizens.
Democratic Party (DP) leader Justin Muturi echoed these concerns, questioning how the recruitment process was conducted. He called for transparency and accountability, saying the public deserved clear answers on who authorised the programme and how youths were selected.
Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Fred Matiang’i also addressed education issues, criticising the government’s handling of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), especially the transition of learners to Grade 10. He said communication had been poor and accused the government of politicising education, putting students’ futures at risk.
Muturi supported these remarks, calling for serious reforms in the education sector to ensure fairness, smooth transitions, and equal opportunities for all learners.
The opposition leaders said they remain committed to a reform agenda aimed at restoring good governance and improving the lives of Kenyans. They dismissed claims that they lack a clear plan, promising to reintroduce free primary and secondary education if given the chance to lead.
Later, the leaders held public meetings in Nyandarua and Nakuru counties, where they engaged residents and explained their positions on national issues.
On teacher employment, Matiang’i criticised the President’s decision to shift recruitment powers from the Teachers Service Commission to the State House. He warned that the move could be unfair and discriminatory, especially to those perceived as not supporting the current government.
