In a dramatic political turn, lawmakers allied to President William Ruto are now publicly questioning two of his administration’s flagship programs — the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) and the revamped university funding model. These leaders, mainly from Central Kenya, are urging a review of the schemes, saying they have caused more pain than relief to ordinary citizens. The public pushback is a sign that even within Ruto’s inner circle, frustrations with the implementation of key reforms are boiling over.
The SHIF, launched to replace the long-criticized NHIF, was meant to usher in a new era of universal healthcare. However, many Kenyans are still confused about how to register, what benefits they are entitled to, and why deductions are being made without proper communication. Some MPs said the rollout lacked public education and transparency — leaving citizens in fear and frustration over what should have been a positive change.
Equally under fire is the higher education funding model, which was expected to help more students access university and college through a “needs-based” support structure. But instead, many students and parents are reporting delayed funds, unclear criteria for qualification, and a sense of abandonment by the system. In rural areas like Kericho, Eldoret, and Bomet, bright students from low-income families are struggling to stay in school, raising fears that the reform could worsen inequality.
The fact that these criticisms are coming from Ruto’s allies is politically significant. It shows growing cracks within Kenya Kwanza’s support base and signals that leaders on the ground are feeling the heat from their constituents. Rift Valley leaders, while more reserved, are also under pressure from Gen Z voters and parents demanding answers. This shift could reshape the political tone in the region ahead of 2027.
It remains to be seen whether the government will act swiftly to review or overhaul these schemes. For now, public sentiment is turning, and the honeymoon period for Ruto’s social reform agenda may be officially over. One thing is clear — Kenyans are no longer content with good intentions. They want results, clarity, and most of all, accountability.
