The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Kenyan taxpayers contributed Ksh.14.3 billion in 2023 for the government’s extravagant acquisition and maintenance of new vehicles, according to a newly drafted policy.
This disclosure has sparked concerns about the government’s contradictory messaging, especially as it has been advocating for austerity measures in light of the country’s economic challenges.
The Government Transport Policy for 2024, prepared by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, reveals that taxpayers are increasingly shouldering the rising costs associated with the government’s vehicle fleet.
The data indicates a significant increase in budget allocations, rising from Ksh.8.6 billion in 2021 to Ksh.9.7 billion in 2022, and then to Ksh.14.3 billion in 2023.
For the 2023/24 fiscal year, Ksh.12.2 billion has been earmarked for purchasing and maintaining new vehicles.
Mbadi explained that the steep rise in expenditures is attributed to fuel, operational, and maintenance costs.
He noted that inefficiencies in fleet operations, coupled with global fuel price hikes and an increased number of officials entitled to government transport due to the devolved system of governance and the establishment of more executive offices, have contributed to the trend.
The Cabinet Secretary highlighted the lack of control over who qualifies for official government transport, leading to inflated costs.
Mbadi warned that without effective policy measures, expenses related to government transport will continue to escalate.
To address this issue, he proposed creating a new agency, the Government Fleet Management Department (GFMD), which would be based within the National Treasury. This agency would oversee regulations on vehicle purchases to reduce costs and support local businesses.
The policy also suggests implementing a computerized fuel monitoring system, allowing vehicle users to refuel using a key with a chip linked to their personal identification number. This system would track fuel consumption and enable the GFMD to adjust budgets accordingly.
Concerns about the lavish lifestyles of elected officials have previously been raised, with taxpayers bearing the financial burden of such opulence. This dissatisfaction led to protests by Gen Z from June to August 2024, where Kenyans demanded accountability.
