By Njeri Irungu.
Murang’a County Governor Irungu Kang’ata has held a press conference this afternoon to announce contempt of court proceedings against the Controller of Budget for failing to release critical bursary funds. This comes despite a valid court order mandating the disbursement, leaving thousands of needy students in limbo as schools prepare to reopen next week.
The County Government of Murang’a had successfully obtained a court order directing the Controller of Budget to release the bursary funds, which serve as a vital support system for underprivileged learners. However, with the new school term fast approaching, the funds remain undisbursed, creating uncertainty for families who rely on this assistance to keep their children in school. Governor Kang’ata has strongly condemned this delay, describing it as a blatant disregard for the rule of law and a direct threat to children’s right to education.
The delayed funds could have severe consequences for Murang’a’s education system. Each year, the county’s bursary program supports tens of thousands of students by covering essential costs such as tuition fees, uniforms, and learning materials. Without this support, many vulnerable learners risk being turned away from school when the new term begins. Education officials and activists have expressed deep concern, warning that such delays disproportionately affect low-income families and could lead to increased dropout rates.
Governor Kang’ata, a former Senator with a legal background, has vowed to use all available legal channels to ensure compliance with the court order. This impending legal action highlights growing tensions between county governments and national treasury officials over fund disbursements. The standoff also raises broader questions about the efficiency of Kenya’s devolution system, particularly when it comes to delivering essential services like education.
The press conference, scheduled for later today at the Murang’a County Headquarters, will provide further details on the contempt proceedings and any emergency measures being considered to assist affected students. Education stakeholders and the general public are eagerly awaiting developments, as the outcome could set an important precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the future.
As the situation unfolds, parents and students remain anxious about whether the funds will be released in time for school reopening. The Controller of Budget’s office has yet to issue an official statement regarding the delay, but pressure is mounting for immediate action to prevent an education crisis in Murang’a County.
