The recent directive by Basic Education Principal Secretary (PS) Belio Kipsang has stirred significant controversy in Kenya. The government mandated that parents ensure their school-going children are registered with the School Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) before schools reopen on Monday. However, this directive has met with strong objections, sparking a heated debate across the country.
The core of the controversy lies in the fact that SHIF had previously been declared unconstitutional by the courts. An activist, in response to the government’s directive, has filed a petition challenging the order. The activist argues that the government is acting in blatant disregard of a court ruling that declared the SHIF unconstitutional. This petition raises serious concerns about the government’s adherence to the rule of law and the potential implications for the broader education sector.
The activist’s challenge has garnered support from various quarters, including parents and civil society groups who are concerned about the financial burden this directive places on families. With the cost of living already high, many parents are struggling to make ends meet, and the additional expense of registering their children with SHIF is seen as an unnecessary and unjust imposition.
Moreover, the directive has raised questions about the government’s commitment to providing free and accessible education. Critics argue that requiring SHIF registration contradicts the principle of free education, as it imposes a financial requirement that many families may not be able to meet.
As schools prepare to reopen, the outcome of the petition will be closely watched. It is a test of the judiciary’s independence and the government’s willingness to respect court decisions. If the activist’s petition is upheld, it could have far-reaching implications for government policy and the relationship between the state and its citizens.
