Kenyan Members of Parliament have raised concerns over the Ksh. During the previous financial year, a four hundred million budget was used to renovate properties linked to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The funds were reportedly allocated for refurbishing the Harambee Annex office and Karen and Mombasa residences.
Details presented to the National Assembly Security and National Administration Committee revealed that significant amounts were spent on kitchen repairs, building washrooms, and landscaping.
MPs questioned the necessity of such high expenditures, arguing that the renovations nearly matched the original construction costs.
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The Harambee Annex office alone accounted for Ksh. One hundred million of the budget, with upgrades including 6th-floor renovations, installation of three lifts, and a VIP dining area on the second floor.
The project will be completed by 2027 and will cost Ksh. 450 million, representing 22% completion to date.
Committee Chairperson Gabriel Tong’oyo questioned the rationale for spending Ksh. 450 million on a building that initially cost Ksh. 600 million. Ann Mwangi, Director of Planning at the Deputy President’s office, defended the expenditure, citing additional pending works such as tile replacements and fountain installations.
In Karen, Ksh. 250 million was allocated for upgrades to the former DP’s residence, which included a 50-seater Cabinet meeting room, a 100-seater dining room, new furniture, and a garage.
The final cost is expected to reach Ksh. 560 million, exceeding the residence's original construction cost.
The Mombasa residence renovations cost Ksh. Fifty million, covering a swimming pool, guest wing, air conditioning, and new ceilings. By completion, the total cost will hit Ksh. 240 million.
