Gachagua's Travel and Hospitality Budget Slashed by Sh1.8 Billion

The office of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua faces significant budget cuts for the current fiscal year.

In the recent round of austerity measures by Ruto's regime, Gachagua's office endures a substantial reduction of Sh1.8 billion, primarily affecting travel and hospitality expenditures. The Deputy President's office initially allocated Sh4.57 billion, now faces a diminished budget of Sh2.69 billion. These cuts target recurrent activities including domestic and foreign travel, hospitality, and the acquisition of furniture and vehicles.

Comparatively, President Ruto's office experienced a Sh647 million reduction, while Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi's office saw Sh419 million removed from its budget. These budgetary adjustments were precipitated by the rejection of the Finance Bill, 2024, following widespread demonstrations across the country. In response to demands from the youth, President Ruto announced the closure of offices for the First Lady and the spouses of DP Gachagua and Mr Mudavadi. The impact on Gachagua's office is particularly severe, affecting programs close to his heart.

The Coffee Sector Implementation Committee has seen Sh88.8 million slashed from its budget, while the Alcohol, Drugs, and Substance Abuse Program faces a Sh42.5 million reduction. Additionally, the Sh557 million allocation for his wife's office is entirely removed. Gachagua had expressed frustration with government officials over the inexplicable reopening of previously closed bars. He decried the issuance of licenses for the distribution and sale of harmful alcohol, emphasizing the moral and public health implications.

The Sh1.87 billion reduction in Gachagua's office budget significantly overshadows the cuts in President Ruto's executive office and Mr. Mudavadi's office. The latter faced a comparatively modest Sh419 million reduction. The ripple effects of these austerity measures extend beyond individual offices. State House stands to lose Sh3.6 billion, including funds earmarked for travel, hospitality, vehicle purchases, and household furniture.