President William Ruto has called for a significant reduction in Kenya’s parliamentary budget, citing the new Bunge Tower as a facility that should eliminate the need for legislators to travel or use hotels for committee meetings.
In an appeal to lawmakers during the official launch of the modern parliamentary building on Thursday, Ruto said “There will be no more requests for travel to hotels because we now have committee rooms here. I want to see a reduction in Parliament’s budget.”
The Bunge Tower project, spearheaded by the Parliamentary Service Commission led by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, provides state-of-the-art facilities for Kenya’s bicameral legislature.
“Because you now have a world class building and facilities, Kenyans expect world class services from you,” Ruto told MPs. “You have no reason but to give the people of Kenya the best.”
The president’s push for cost savings at the legislature comes as his administration grapples with economic headwinds including drought, high debt levels, and a weaker shilling. Trimming parliament’s budget could free up funds for Ruto’s policy agenda.
In his remarks, Ruto also commended parliament for amending rules to allow cabinet secretaries to field questions from MPs every Wednesday, enhancing executive oversight.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua called on MPs to be dedicated public servants and support initiatives like the anti-drug campaign to protect Kenya’s youth.
