Opposition leaders have accused the government of misleading young Kenyans with promises of overseas jobs, claiming that some of those who traveled abroad ended up in active military zones in Russia.
The leaders spoke during a church service in Nyandarua County, where they raised concern about the safety and welfare of the youths said to be affected.
They argued that the government must take responsibility for protecting citizens and ensuring that foreign job programs are safe and transparent.
The United Opposition has accused the government of misleading young Kenyans with promises of overseas employment, alleging that some have instead ended up in active military zones in Russia.
Speaking to congregants and residents, the leaders condemned what they described as poor handling of foreign job opportunities.
They called for the immediate recall of all Kenyan youths reportedly sent to Russia, saying their lives could be in danger if the claims are true.
DCP party leader Rigathi Gachagua urged President William Ruto to intervene quickly and organize the safe return of the young Kenyans currently in Russia.
Gachagua and members of the opposition during the earlier engagement with the public. Photo Courtesy: Rigathi Gachagua/X
He expressed deep concern over reports suggesting that several youths had lost their lives in the conflict. According to him, the government has a duty to protect citizens and ensure that no one is exposed to war zones under the guise of employment opportunities.
DP party leader Justin Muturi supported Gachagua’s remarks and questioned the recruitment process that led to the travel of the youths.
He said there should be full transparency and accountability to assure families that their loved ones are safe.
Muturi also called for urgent government action to investigate the matter and offer support to families who may have been affected.
The leaders also addressed issues in the education sector. Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Fred Matiang’i criticized the government’s communication regarding the enrollment of Grade 10 students under the Competency-Based Curriculum.
He said the information released had been unclear and had caused confusion among parents and learners. Matiang’i noted that many students had not yet resumed secondary school and warned that education should not be turned into a political issue.
Muturi added that the education system requires serious and comprehensive reforms to ensure fairness and smooth transitions for students.
He emphasized the importance of equal opportunities and proper planning to avoid leaving some learners behind.
The opposition leaders said they remain committed to what they described as a transformative agenda for the country.
They rejected claims that they lack a clear plan and insisted they have a strategy focused on improving governance and the welfare of Kenyans.
Among their promises is the return of free primary and secondary education, which they believe would ease the burden on families.
After the church service, the leaders continued with public engagements in Nyandarua and Nakuru counties, where they shared their views and listened to residents’ concerns.
On the issue of teacher employment, Matiang’i criticized the decision to shift recruitment responsibilities from the Teachers Service Commission to the State House.
He said the move could be unfair and might disadvantage individuals who are seen as not supporting the current administration.