Members of the National Assembly Administration and Internal Security Committee have questioned a proposed KSh280 million refurbishment of the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary, seeking clarity on value for money and justification for renovations at leased premises.
Members of the National Assembly Administration and Internal Security Committee have raised concerns over a proposed KSh280 million refurbishment of the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary during deliberations on the 2026/27 Budget Policy Statement (BPS).
The issues arose when the Committee engaged officials from the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary and the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, representing the office of Musalia Mudavadi.
Chief of Staff Joseph Busiega told lawmakers that the Office is seeking KSh280 million to refurbish its premises located at the Kenya Railways Corporation headquarters in Nairobi.
MPs Question Renovations at Leased Premises
Committee members questioned the prudence of allocating substantial public funds toward upgrading facilities that are not government-owned, calling for detailed justification and assurances of value for money.
The lawmakers noted that renovation spending at leased premises could present accountability risks unless supported by clear cost-benefit analysis and long-term occupancy plans.
In response, Mr Busiega clarified that the proposed allocation targets critical infrastructure upgrades, particularly security improvements.
He explained that planned works include installation of surveillance systems and related enhancements aimed at strengthening operational safety within the office.
Deputy President’s Office Budget Shows Funding Gap
During the same session, the Committee also reviewed the Budget Policy Statement submitted by the Office of the Deputy President.
The delegation was led by Principal Administrative Secretary Moses Mbaruku, who outlined the office’s financial requirements for the 2026/27 fiscal year.
According to the presentation, the Office is seeking an allocation of approximately KSh3.581 billion, with the bulk earmarked for recurrent expenditure covering administration, coordination, and supervisory functions.
Officials further disclosed a funding shortfall estimated at KSh967.3 million, attributed to operational demands and priority programme commitments.
Committee Oversight to Inform Budget Estimates
The Administration and Internal Security Committee, chaired by Gabriel Tongoyo, indicated that the ongoing scrutiny of Budget Policy Statements provides an important platform for policy engagement and fiscal oversight.
Through the review process, the Committee’s observations and recommendations are expected to inform the development of annual budget estimates and resource allocation decisions across government entities.
Lawmakers are scheduled to continue engagements with additional Ministries, Departments, and Agencies as Parliament advances examination of BPS proposals ahead of the national budget cycle.
