The office of Kithure Kindiki is seeking more funding as operational costs increase. Documents before the National Assembly show a request for an extra Sh450 million. A large share will go to hospitality, which includes catering and official events. The office had already received Sh523 million for this purpose. It now wants an additional Sh350 million, pushing the total to Sh873 million before the financial year ends.
The office has also spent an extra Sh100 million on hiring helicopters. This spending appears in the supplementary budget for the 2025/26 financial year. The request forms part of a broader Sh1.9 billion allocation that the office wants approved within a short time frame. If approved, the total budget for the office will rise sharply to Sh4.9 billion.
Tough Questions as Other Sectors Face Cuts
The request comes at a sensitive time. The government has reduced funding in key areas. It has cut billions from education, technology, and digital development programmes. These cuts have raised concern among leaders and the public. Many people now question the timing and priorities behind the additional spending.
Several Members of Parliament have voiced concern. Peter Kaluma said the process weakens Parliament’s oversight role. He argued that budget approvals should follow proper procedures. Protus Akuja pointed to a growing trend of using Article 223 to access funds after budgets are exhausted. Rosa Buyu raised concerns about the high hospitality budget. She questioned whether such spending aligns with calls for austerity by William Ruto. Her remarks reflect a wider public concern about how government prioritises spending during tight economic periods.
Why the Office Says the Money Is Needed
Officials in kithure kindiki’s office say the funds support critical national duties. Principal Administrative Secretary Moses Mbaruku explained that the office oversees major government programmes. The Deputy President travels across the country to monitor projects and ensure they deliver results.
He said the office also leads coordination between ministries and chairs key committees. These responsibilities require frequent travel and public engagement. According to him, unreliable flight schedules and dependence on other agencies caused delays. The office responded by leasing helicopters to maintain efficiency. Mr Mbaruku added that the additional funds will help sustain these operations. He said the goal is to improve service delivery and ensure government programmes meet public expectations. Even so, the debate continues. Many Kenyans want to see a balance between essential government work and responsible use of public funds.
