A section of opposition leaders, led by Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, has opposed the directive to have National Youth Service recruits undergo basic firearm training.
President William Ruto directed that NYS recruits should undergo a basic course in firearms to prepare them to protect the country when the need arises.
He spoke during the 88th recruits passing out parade in Gilgil, Nakuru last week
But speaking after a church service at the Holy Ghost Cathedral in Mombasa on Sunday, Musyoka said the move intends to thwart any emerging public protests.
“The idea of NYS was not to create another military wing, but it’s a force to assist in building Kenya and to improve their technical skills,” Musyoka said
DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa said many youths were killed in the recent protests, hence the move to give guns to NYS recruits worries the citizens.
“The bullets that were used are many, sadly now they want to increase guns and bullets,” Wamalwa said.
He urged the faithful to pray for peace to prevail in the country.
On the broad-based government that has seen the inclusion of ODM bigwigs in the cabinet, Musyoka said the move will not weaken the opposition as the majority of Kenyans are behind them.
The Wiper Leader at the same time opposed the new university funding model saying some parents can no longer take their children to universities.
Wamalwa criticised the new university funding model saying it has led to an increase in fees, leading to confusion.
Jubilee party leader Jeremiah Kioni said the gains made by the Late President Mwai Kibaki in the education sector including free education were supposed to benefit all children regardless of their economic status.
“That is now being taken away through unjust proposals, it is important that we all stand up and say that education should be available for all,” Kioni said.
