Kimilili Member of Parliament Didmus Barasa has strongly defended his academic credentials after his educational background became a subject of public discussion.
Barasa responded by highlighting his doctoral qualification in Public Administration, drawing a distinction between an earned PhD and an honorary doctorate awarded by a university.
“If I went to school, I went to school, and I have a PhD in Public Administration, not the one given to you which is called ‘Honoris causa,’” Barasa said.
The outspoken legislator made the remarks in response to questions surrounding academic qualifications, using the opportunity to emphasize that he had pursued formal studies to attain his doctorate.
An earned PhD is generally awarded after a candidate completes an advanced academic programme involving research, examination and the submission of a doctoral thesis or dissertation.
An honorary doctorate, commonly described by the Latin phrase honoris causa, is instead conferred by an institution to recognise an individual’s achievements or contribution to society, a profession or a particular field.
Barasa’s comments therefore focused on the distinction between the two forms of recognition.
By specifically mentioning his PhD in Public Administration, the Kimilili MP sought to underline his academic background while responding to the debate surrounding his qualifications.
The remarks have added another layer to Kenya’s wider political discussions, where leaders’ education and professional backgrounds frequently become part of public debate.
Politicians often face scrutiny over their academic credentials, particularly when their qualifications are raised during political exchanges or disagreements.
Barasa is known for making outspoken statements on political and national issues, and his latest comments were delivered in the same direct style.
Rather than allowing questions about his education to remain unanswered, he chose to publicly state the qualification he holds and explain how he views the distinction between an earned doctorate and an honorary degree.
The debate also highlights the broader public interest in the academic journeys of Kenyan politicians.
Members of Parliament and other public officials are regularly subjected to scrutiny regarding their education, professional experience and qualifications.
For Barasa, the issue provided an opportunity to put his academic credentials at the centre of the conversation.
His assertion was clear: he holds a PhD in Public Administration and considers it an earned academic qualification rather than an honorary award.
His remarks are likely to continue generating discussion as Kenyans examine the qualifications and backgrounds of political leaders ahead of the country’s increasingly active political period.