Lurambi, Kenya – July 8, 2024 – In a controversial move, Titus Khamala, the Member of Parliament for Lurambi, has announced that MPs will cease disbursing bursaries to students.
This decision, shared during a public address over the weekend, comes in response to growing criticism from the younger generation about the management of the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF).
Khamala, who is affiliated with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), revealed that MPs across the board have agreed to stop providing bursaries due to the backlash they have been receiving.
He pointed out that Generation Z, in particular, has been vocal in their criticism, accusing MPs of mishandling the NG-CDF and even labeling them as “MPigs”—a derogatory term suggesting greed and mismanagement.
“As MPs, we have spoken in one voice about the CDF, which is causing us problems. We are being insulted and called ‘MPigs,’” Khamala stated. “To make Gen Z happy, we have decided to end the bursary that goes to them.”
Khamala expressed disappointment that the younger generation, who are the primary beneficiaries of these bursaries, are the same ones hurling accusations at MPs.
He emphasized that moving forward, students would need to seek alternative sources of financial support for their education.
These options include approaching the Ministry of Education, contacting their county offices, or applying for loans through the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB).
“Prepare yourselves for a life without CDF,” he warned the youth, underscoring the need for accountability in the use of public funds.
This announcement has stirred significant debate, especially as it coincides with discussions about amending the NG-CDF Act.
The proposed amendments aim to reduce MPs’ control over the fund’s allocation, which has been a source of contention.
Currently, MPs have a significant say in how NG-CDF funds are used, acting as key patrons of the fund. This role has led to accusations of mismanagement and corruption, contributing to the criticism from the younger population.
The NG-CDF, introduced in 2002, has been instrumental in providing financial aid to students across Kenya. It has helped many families afford school fees and other educational expenses.
However, it has also been plagued by allegations of inefficiency and lack of transparency in fund distribution. Critics argue that MPs have too much influence over the fund’s allocation, leading to potential misuse.
Khamala’s remarks suggest that MPs are now re-evaluating their role in managing these funds in light of the criticism.
Some MPs have expressed concerns that the Senate is being used by the Executive to dismantle the NG-CDF. They argue that the Senate's push for reforms could undermine a system that, despite its flaws, provides essential support to students.
The announcement has elicited mixed reactions from various stakeholders. Supporters of the decision argue that it is necessary to address the criticisms and ensure more responsible use of public funds.
They believe that removing MPs from the direct management of the NG-CDF could lead to better oversight and reduce opportunities for corruption.
On the other hand, critics of the move are concerned about the potential impact on students who rely on these bursaries.
For many families, the NG-CDF bursaries are a crucial source of financial support that enables their children to pursue education. The decision to halt these bursaries could leave many students struggling to find alternative funding.
Educational experts and advocacy groups have voiced concerns that this move could widen the gap in educational access, particularly for students from low-income families.
They argue that while reforms are necessary to improve accountability, a complete cessation of bursaries could have detrimental effects on students’ educational opportunities.
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