President Ruto Addresses Former President Kenyatta's Concerns Over Office Funds

In a significant development on Tuesday, President William Ruto held discussions with his predecessor, retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, concerning the disbursement of funds allocated to Kenyatta's office. The conversation, which aimed to address grievances raised by the former President, has led to immediate action from the current administration.

State House spokesperson Hussein Mohamed announced that following these talks, President Ruto has constituted a team headed by Felix Koskei, the Head of Public Service, to tackle the issues highlighted by Kenyatta. "This morning, President William Ruto had a conversation with his predecessor, the 4th President, President Uhuru Kenyatta, regarding concerns about facilitating the functioning of the retired President’s office. President Ruto has consequently constituted a team, led by the Head of Public Service, to immediately address all the issues raised, including the location of the retired President’s office and the attendant staff establishment," Mohamed stated on X (formerly Twitter).

The move comes after former President Kenyatta accused the Ruto administration of obstructing his entitled benefits under the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act. Through his spokesperson, Kanze Dena, Kenyatta outlined several grievances, including financial constraints caused by the denial of official office space and other resources.

Despite receiving a Ksh.48 million gratuity at the end of his term, along with monthly allowances and medical cover, Kenyatta's office claims that the budgetary allocation meant for him has not been disbursed. This has forced the former President to personally finance the operations of his office.

The Presidential Retirement Benefits Act provides a comprehensive set of benefits for retired presidents. These benefits include a monthly pension, entertainment allowance, housing allowance, suitable office space, two new cars replaceable every two years, two four-wheel drive vehicles replaceable every three years, fuel allowance, and coverage for water, electricity, telephone facilities, and full medical and hospital cover, among others.

Kenyatta's allegations of being financially choked by the current administration have sparked significant concern. The team led by Koskei is expected to urgently address these issues to ensure that the former President receives his entitled benefits and support.

The swift formation of the team underscores the seriousness with which President Ruto's administration is treating Kenyatta's concerns. As the team begins its work, it will be closely watched to see how effectively it can resolve the issues and restore the former President's access to his rightful benefits.