Wetang’ula Hails Ruto’s Teacher Recruitment Drive as Historic, Calls for his Second Term

The Speaker of the National Assembly, Rt. Hon. Moses Wetang’ula, has lauded President William Ruto’s administration for making a historic investment in Kenya’s education sector through the mass recruitment of teachers.

Speaking during a 'Family Day' service at Mutuati Catholic Church in Meru County, Wetang’ula praised the government’s deliberate effort to address teacher shortages and improve learning outcomes, terming it “the most ambitious teacher recruitment drive since independence.” “Since President Ruto took over, he has employed 76,000 teachers.

In addition, the current budget allocates funds to hire another 24,000, bringing the total to 100,000 teachers in just about three years. We have never seen such numbers in the history of this country,” he said.

He emphasized that this milestone reflects the administration’s strong commitment to providing quality education, reducing the teacher-to-student ratio, and ensuring that every Kenyan child has access to competent and well-resourced teaching.

“This is a clear demonstration of President Ruto’s resolve to transform education in Kenya. It is a game-changer for our schools and a solid foundation for future generations,” he said.

Wetang’ula used the occasion to urge Meru residents to support President Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027, citing tangible development strides made during his first term.

He underscored the teacher recruitment initiative as a prime example of the President’s delivery on campaign promises.

“You should support him because he is delivering. He deserves two terms,” said Wetang’ula, who was accompanied by Meru Governor Rev. Isaac Mutuma, Tigania East MP Julius Taitumu, Tigania West MP Dr. John Mutunga, and other national leaders.

The Speaker also appealed to residents to take advantage of the newly constituted Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) by registering as voters ahead of the 2027 polls.

“We have over two years to the next general election. I call upon citizens, especially the youth, to acquire national IDs and register as voters early,” he said.

Wetang’ula took issue with opposition leaders whom he accused of disrespecting government officials, urging them to uphold civility in political discourse.

“To be respected as a leader, you must first respect others. Leadership begins with character and humility,” he noted.

The Speaker also discouraged violent demonstrations, saying they derail national development and worsen youth unemployment a challenge he acknowledged is global in nature.

“What we need to do is educate and equip our children with skills to enhance their employability. Violent protests are not the solution,” he added.

Turning to local issues, Wetang’ula assured residents of Igembe region that the government is committed to addressing insecurity, especially in areas plagued by cattle rustling.

He said plans are underway for local leaders, led by MP Julius Taitumu, to hold discussions with President Ruto to develop a lasting solution.

“Peace is paramount for development. I have already acted, and the area MP will lead an engagement with the President to find a permanent resolution to the conflict in the region,” he said.

He also pledged that the government will streamline the miraa trade to boost the region’s economic fortunes, noting its importance to the livelihoods of Meru residents.

“The government recognizes the significance of miraa farming and will put in place mechanisms to support and regularize the trade for sustainable economic development,” he stated.

Wetang’ula concluded by commending Hon. Julius Taitumu for his leadership, describing Tigania East as a peaceful and industrious constituency.

“In life, there is no way to peace peace is the way,” he said.

He was accompanied by several leaders, including Meru County Governor Rev. Isaac Mutuma, MPs John Makali, Catherine Omanyo, Elizabeth Kailemia, and Florence Kajuju, the former Chairperson of the Commission on Administrative Justice (Office of the Ombudsman).