Ruto’s Office Budget Quadruples in Latest Allocation
In a development that has sparked debate among stakeholders and policy analysts, the budget for President William Ruto’s office has quadrupled in the latest government allocation, marking a significant shift in the executive’s spending priorities.
According to official documents released on May 6, 2025, the Office of the President is set to receive a staggering KSh 9.2 billion for the 2025/2026 fiscal year, up from the previous KSh 2.3 billion.
The increase, which represents a more than 300% rise, is said to cover a broad range of administrative functions, security enhancements, expanded executive operations, and newly introduced programs under the President’s direct supervision.
Government spokespersons have defended the increase, stating that the expanded budget will support the delivery of critical national development initiatives under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), a flagship policy of the Ruto administration. They argue that with Kenya facing complex challenges, including high unemployment, inflation, and debt servicing pressures, the executive needs sufficient resources to implement reforms and bolster governance.
However, the move has not been without criticism. Civil society organizations and opposition leaders have raised concerns over what they term as “excessive executive spending” at a time when Kenyans are grappling with the rising cost of living and austerity measures in other sectors, including healthcare and education.
Transparency advocates have also called for detailed disclosure on how the funds will be spent, emphasizing the need for accountability and prudent fiscal management.
As budget discussions continue in Parliament, all eyes will be on legislators to determine whether the allocation will be approved without amendments or face resistance from watchdogs pushing for greater public sector efficiency.
This dramatic budgetary shift underscores the government’s complex balancing act in aligning executive needs with national economic realities.
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