Pressure is mounting on President William Ruto to overhaul his Cabinet as part of austerity measures. After rejecting the Finance Bill 2024, Ruto approved freezing government spending and budget cuts to offset the revenue shortfall from the bill. Senators unanimously advised Ruto to reduce his Cabinet and eliminate unconstitutional offices that add financial burdens on taxpayers.
During a session on Wednesday, July 3, Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale highlighted that the financial crisis could be detrimental to Ruto's administration, especially with public resistance to tax hikes. Following the rejection of the Finance Bill 2024, which aimed to raise KSh 346 billion for the 2024/25 national budget, the country now faces a deficit that may require borrowing close to KSh 1 trillion.
Khalwale suggested that Ruto should consider downsizing the National Executive staff to free up funds for critical government functions. He recommended dissolving the Cabinet, reconstituting it, and eliminating unconstitutional offices, including those of the Prime Cabinet Secretary and the First and Second Lady. He also criticized advisors who he believed were not contributing effectively.
Makueni Senator Enock Wambua proposed reducing the number of Cabinet Secretaries from 23 to 14 and merging redundant state departments and agencies to cut costs.
Senate Deputy Minority Whip Edwin Sifuna supported these austerity measures. He revealed that he had KSh 377,000 allocated on his government vehicle’s Electronic Toll Card (ETC) for the Nairobi Expressway, an amount he deemed excessive. Sifuna emphasized the need for Parliament to make significant budget cuts to show solidarity with the public's economic struggles. He also proposed that all senators and MPs decline the recent salary increases.
These measures are part of Ruto's response to public discontent and protests against the Finance Bill 2024. By implementing budget cuts and reducing government expenditure, the administration aims to address the financial shortfall and demonstrate a commitment to responsible fiscal management.
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