Lawyer Willis Otieno Raises Red Flag Over Teachers’ Meeting with Ruto at State House

Constitutional lawyer Willis Otieno has cast doubt on the value of last week’s meeting between teachers and President William Ruto, warning that the gathering risks eroding the principle of neutrality in public service.

In an interview on KTN News, Otieno questioned what the teachers’ visit achieved for the wider public, pointing out that civil servants are bound by law to steer clear of partisan politics.

“When these teachers went to State House, what is the takeaway to the public good?” he asked.

Otieno cautioned that turning State House engagements into political platforms could set a dangerous precedent, especially after reports emerged that some teachers chanted “two-term” slogans in support of the president. 

The incident has fueled debate on whether the meeting was a policy dialogue or an early campaign rally.

Reflecting on the state of education, Otieno contrasted the current situation with the reforms under former President Mwai Kibaki, whose free primary education programme opened up access to millions and gave rise to a more politically conscious citizenry. 

He argued that today’s leaders must rise to the challenge of protecting professionalism in education rather than bending to political interests.

“It will be a shame when that generation does not respond to what the Gen Zs have done to them,” he remarked, noting that young people have recently pushed for accountability from leaders.

Otieno insisted that the education sector can only regain its footing through strong management and strict adherence to the law separating politics from public service.

The State House meeting has since split opinion, with critics echoing Otieno’s concern that it blurred the line between leadership engagement and political campaigning.