Maraga faults CBC rollout, slams handouts and graft

Former Chief Justice and presidential aspirant David Maraga has criticised the government over what he termed as poor implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), warning that gaps in execution risk locking out thousands of learners across the country.

Speaking during a United Green Movement Party forum for young political aspirants in Kisumu on Thursday, Maraga said official reports painting CBC as a success do not reflect realities on the ground.

“While we are told transition rates are high, what we see in many schools is very different. Some institutions have very few learners progressing, which raises serious concerns about implementation,” he said.

Cup pressure peaks as Shabana host Kenya Police in blockbuster quarter-final Football

Upper Hill coach Walgwe unperturbed despite drawing giants in Prescott Cup group phase Rugby

Maraga warned that losing even one child due to systemic failures is unacceptable, noting that teachers and schools are ill-prepared to handle the demands of the new education system.

He linked the education challenges to what he described as a wider governance crisis driven by corruption and misplaced priorities.

According to Maraga, Kenya’s economic struggles are not caused by lack of resources but by corruption and inequitable distribution of public funds.

“Kenya is a very rich country, but resources are captured by a few. About 125 individuals control wealth equivalent to what 2.5 million Kenyans own,” he said.

The former Chief Justice also took aim at government handout programmes, including the World Bank-funded Nyota Fund, arguing that cash transfers are being used as political tools rather than sustainable solutions to youth unemployment.

“Giving someone Sh50,000 may look good, but it is not sustainable, and it does not reach everyone. These programmes benefit a few and are used to create political loyalty,” Maraga said.

He said public funds, whether borrowed or collected as revenue, must be invested in long-term systems that create jobs, strengthen education, and improve healthcare.

Maraga accused the government of prioritising short-term political survival over structural reforms, warning that such approaches deepen inequality and increase public debt. He noted that despite claims of economic growth, doctors remain on strike, children are out of school and basic services are deteriorating.

“As a party, we reject handouts and corruption. Our politics is value-based and focused on building systems that serve all Kenyans,” he said.

Maraga said the United Green Movement Party maintains zero tolerance for corruption and misuse of public resources, adding that the party is open to working with like-minded groups committed to integrity and accountability.

He also announced plans for a nationwide voter registration drive beginning February 1, targeting young people and unregistered citizens ahead of the 2027 General Election.

“The only way to dismantle corrupt systems is through the vote. A voter card is your most powerful tool,” he said.