Office of the deputy president Rigathi Gachagua on Thursday May 16, 2024 dismissed media reports on Ksh1.12 billion for renovation of his official Karen residence, official residence in Mombasa and Harambee Annex office.

In a statement, the deputy president’s communication team stated that the actual amount for the renovations was Ksh300 million.

“Our attention is drawn to media reports on the presentation of the 2024/25 FY Budget Estimates and the 2023/24 Supplementary II Estimates as presented to the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security by the Office of the Deputy President.

“The facts are:  A request for Kshs. 300 Million for renovation of the Harambee House Annex Office, Official Residence in Karen and the Official Residence in Mombasa,” read part of the statement from the DP’s office.

In addition, deputy head of presidential communication service Njeri Rugene noted that the Harambee House Annex Office and Mombasa Residence have been neglected over 15 years affecting critical areas of habitability, safety and security.

Njeri also clarified that for FY 2024/25 the DP’s office requested Ksh100 million for purchasing office motor vehicles.

“For the last 10 years, the Office of The Deputy President has heavily relied on old, and refurbished vehicles which are costly to maintain, compromising service delivery,” read part of the statement.

The statement emerged a day after news circulated on social media about the alleged Ksh1.12 billion needed for renovation of Gachagua’s office and official residence in Karen.