Former President Uhuru Kenyatta is facing a possible Ksh94.6 million reduction in his retirement benefits if the National Treasury’s proposed budget cuts are approved in the upcoming Finance Bill.

The proposal suggests reducing his annual retirement allocation from Ksh371 million to Ksh276 million in the financial year starting in July.

The cuts are part of a broader move by the government targeting retirement packages of former presidents, prime ministers, and vice presidents.

The proposed reductions affect various entitlements, including local and foreign travel, fuel, insurance, and hospitality.

Key areas affected

The breakdown includes Ksh56.5 million for travel, Ksh7.5 million for fuel, Ksh23 million for insurance, and Ksh6 million for hospitality expenses.

In 2023, Uhuru’s spokesperson, Kanze Dena, revealed that the Office of the fourth President had received only Ksh28 million out of the Ksh655 million allocated for the 2022/2023 financial year.

She claimed the shortfall forced the former president to finance his office operations from his own pocket.

This latest proposal comes at a time when Uhuru has been increasingly critical of President William Ruto’s administration.

He has urged the youth to rise up and defend their rights, calling on them to be bold and fearless.

His younger brother, Muhoho Kenyatta, has also supported his calls, encouraging young people to take an active role in defending the country, something that has been interpreted as him interfering with the current officeholder.

Muhoho urged young people to seize leadership roles immediately, stating that the youths should seize leadership positions.

“It is their time now to grasp and take over the mantle of leadership, and as such the stewardship of our continent with their passion, innovation, and energy,” Muhoho said.

Criticism

However, the former president’s recent actions have drawn sharp criticism from allies of President Ruto.

They have accused him of engaging in politics despite his retired status and have urged him to refrain from inciting the youth against the government.

Some close to the president believe that Uhuru should stay out of politics and fully embrace retirement.

Ruto’s aide, Farouk Kibet, recently criticised Uhuru, accusing him of interfering with the current administration.

He called on Parliament to pass legislation barring retired presidents from participating in politics.

 He further proposed that those who defy such laws should lose their retirement benefits, which should instead be redirected to public use.

In a recent public address, Kibet said, “Naambia Ichung’wah, sisi tunataka mtu yeyote ambaye anastaafu, hii kitu ipelekwe bunge. Mtu yeyote ambaye anajihusisha na siasa, pesa yake ichukuliwe na ipewe wananchi.”