Ex-president Uhuru, other retired leaders face Sh94.6 million cut in perks
Kenyatta's annual perks are set to decrease from Sh371.46 million to Sh276.85 million starting July.
Treasury's latest budget proposal aims to reduce the retirement perks of former President Uhuru Kenyatta and other retired leaders, citing austerity measures and fiscal restraint.
According to documents presented in Parliament, Kenyatta's annual perks are set to decrease from Sh371.46 million to Sh276.85 million starting July, marking a substantial reduction across various expenditure categories, including foreign travels, insurance, local trips, and hospitality.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga, who served as Prime Minister, faces a similar cut with his office allocation decreasing from Sh87.2 million to Sh63.27 million.
Meanwhile, former Vice President Moody Awori's budget is also slated for reduction from Sh74.2 million to Sh53.9 million, amidst broader efforts to streamline expenditures on retired dignitaries.
"These proposed cuts reflect a broader government strategy to rein in spending amid economic challenges," said a Treasury official, highlighting reductions in foreign travel allowances by Sh46.5 million for Uhuru and significant decreases in insurance and domestic travel costs across the board.
The budgetary adjustments have sparked political reactions, particularly from allies of President William Ruto, who have criticized Uhuru's continued involvement in national affairs despite his retirement.
Uhuru's recent calls for youth engagement and economic criticism have stirred debate, underscoring ongoing tensions within the ruling coalition.
In contrast, Raila's recent collaboration with President Ruto has reshaped political dynamics, resulting in key appointments of his party members to government positions.
The realignment has drawn both support and dissent within Raila's political base.
Moody Awori, the oldest among the retirees at 97 years, retains a relatively modest reduction in perks, reflecting his continued symbolic role in public service despite scaled-back funding proposals.
Overall, Treasury's proposal seeks to trim Sh167.2 million from the combined budgets of the four retired leaders, with Uhuru's reductions accounting for the majority share.