07/01/2026
THE 'WATU WASOMEE KWAO' DEBATE: TRIBALISM OR ACCOUNTABILITY IN SCHOOL PLACEMENTS?
Analysis of comments from an online post by Ndungu Nyoro reveals that;
✅ 65.4% of respondents support the locals-first idea in national school admissions.
Main reasons cited by supporters:
>Accountability & devolution:
“We built these schools—leaders must serve locals.”
Quota logic:
>Reserve ~50–60% for qualified local learners (common proposals: 50%, 60%, 70%, even up to 80%).
>Practicality:
Nearer schools reduce transport, safety, and cost burdens.
✅23.1% of respondents are Opposing the idea and maintain that "Keep National Schools Truly National
Main reasons cited by opponents:
>Meritocracy:
“Placement should be based on marks and qualification, not locality.”
>National cohesion & exposure:
“National schools must reflect unity and diversity—students from all regions.”
>Risk of tribalism:
“Localizing admissions is backward and promotes tribalism.”
11.5% have posed Unresolved questions
>Who counts as “local”? especially in big cities?
CONCLUSION
Supporters frame it as fairness and accountability, while opponents see it as a threat to equity and national unity. The unresolved question remains: How to balance local empowerment with merit and integration?
Data Source; Social media post by; Ndungu Nyoro
Data Compiled; https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1OVNXGaE7BfXkQ45zhDIen0OyPCuAIR75x2IHjG6OHnM/edit?usp=sharing