NAIROBI, Kenya, Sept 14 – Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Secretary General Collins Oyuu has publicly endorsed President William Ruto for the 2032 elections, hailing him as a “perfect teacher” during a colourful gathering of over 10,000 teachers at State House on Saturday.
In a speech that drew applause from the packed audience, Oyuu lauded the Head of State for what he described as exemplary, hands-on leadership reminiscent of the best classroom educators.
“I listened to His Excellency, and I want to be very frank… when we went to college, no one taught like this man. Your Excellency, you are a perfect teacher. From now on, I will imitate you,” Oyuu declared.
The union boss further proposed the institutionalisation of a biennial Walimu na Rais forum, bringing together teachers and the presidency for structured dialogue. He said such engagements would promote harmony in the education sector, adding that “peace in schools is the backbone of academic performance.”
In his address, President Ruto positioned teachers at the heart of his administration’s development agenda, describing them as “Kenya’s greatest resource and patriots” whose sacrifices sustain nation-building.
He highlighted what he termed as historic investments in education, noting that the budget had risen from Sh540 billion to Sh702 billion in three years — the largest increment in Kenya’s history.
The President said his government had recruited 76,000 teachers, with a target of 100,000 by January 2026, constructed 23,000 new classrooms, and established the Open University of Kenya. He also cited the new student-centred funding model for universities and TVETs as a key reform to strengthen higher learning.
On the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), Ruto reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring a smooth rollout, stressing that adjustments had been made to address teachers’ and parents’ concerns.
“Kumi Bila Break”
“As the Secretary General of KNUT on behalf of teachers I want to say, Kumi bila break. Broad based government is the way to go.”
Oyuu’s endorsement of the President’s “broad-based government” mantra carried political undertones, echoing the “Kumi bila break” slogan — suggesting support for Ruto’s stay in power beyond 2032.
The State House event, one of the largest teachers’ gatherings in recent years, blended education policy discussions with political symbolism, as the KNUT leadership openly aligned itself with the administration.
Observers say Oyuu’s remarks are likely to stir debate within the union and the broader political landscape, especially as the country inches closer to the 2027 elections.
