Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has expressed his willingness to join President William Ruto’s Cabinet, but only on the condition that the government implements free education at all levels. Speaking on Citizen TV on Wednesday evening, Babu stated that education should be free from primary to university, ensuring that every Kenyan child has access to quality learning opportunities.
The outspoken MP pointed out that President Ruto himself benefited from government grants during his time as a student at the University of Nairobi in the 1980s. He argued that education should not be a privilege but a right for all, just as it was when Ruto and other students received government support.
“The only condition I can take a CS Education position in Ruto’s government is if he agrees to make education free. Why? Because President Ruto is a product of free education… From primary to secondary and university,” Babu stated.
Babu emphasized that his political stance is based on service delivery rather than personal differences. He stated that if President Ruto fulfills his promises and improves the country, he would have no problem supporting him. However, he vowed to hold the government accountable if it fails to deliver on its commitments.
“If Ruto works today, I have no problem supporting him. If he doesn’t work, it is my role as a member of the National Assembly to keep him in check, to ensure that he delivers,” he said.
The MP’s remarks come at a time when education funding remains a key issue in Kenya. The rising cost of education, particularly at the university level, has sparked debates on whether the government should increase funding or lower tuition fees.
During the interview, Babu also addressed his performance as an MP, following an Infotrak poll that ranked him the best among all 290 members of the National Assembly with a score of 72%. He was closely followed by Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro at 71%.
Babu stated that the ranking motivates him to work harder and improve his score. Looking ahead to 2027, he reaffirmed his ambitions to run for Nairobi Governor, saying he expects better services as a taxpayer and city resident.
“We might differ ideologically, but nothing personal. I am also a resident of Nairobi who expects services, pays taxes, and should be served like any other Nairobian,” he noted.
His remarks have sparked discussions on whether the government will consider his condition or if it remains a political statement amid the ongoing debates on education reforms.
