Olekina criticises state House spending, calls for end to lavish launches
Narok Senator Ledama Olekina has lashed out at President William Ruto’s administration, accusing it of engaging in wasteful spending following revelations that the State House spent over Ksh800 million on printing during the last financial year.
In a statement shared via his X account on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, Olekina argued that such expenditure was unnecessary and demonstrated misplaced priorities at a time when Kenyans are grappling with the high cost of living. He said the funds could have been redirected toward development projects that directly impact citizens, such as infrastructure and job creation.
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The outspoken senator also faulted the government’s preference for expensive engagements and elaborate functions, which he said added little value to the country’s economic progress. He instead urged the President to consider adopting more cost-effective approaches to governance, including the use of technology to connect with citizens and manage state affairs.
Olekina maintained that the government must embrace modern, transparent, and fiscally responsible methods of leadership rather than investing heavily in what he described as ceremonial and symbolic exercises.
“You may not like what I have to say, but I’ll say it anyway: State House lunches = waste of public funds. Bus rides, per diems and buffets don’t build roads or jobs. Mr. President, pause county visits and State House lunches for 100 days embrace digital town halls. End the politics of plates, embrace the politics of the future,” Olekina wrote.
Ksh800 million on Printing
His remarks came shortly after Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang’o released a report showing that the Executive Office of the President spent an average of Ksh2.2 million daily on printing during the 2024/2025 financial year.
According to the report, the annual bill amounted to Ksh817 million. The money was used to produce official documents such as executive orders, performance contracts, press releases, crisis communication materials and invitation cards for the many guests hosted at the State House.
Nyakang’o also revealed that the office spent heavily on various advisory services. She said Ksh62 million went to the Kenya–South Sudan advisory services, Ksh46 million on the Power of Mercy advisory, and Ksh450 million on counter-terrorism advisory services.
“The office also splashed out Ksh97 million for advisory services on economic and social affairs, Ksh150 million on strategic policy advisory services, and Ksh251 million on public entities oversight entities,” the Controller of Budget said.
