President Ruto promises release of NG- CDF funds before schools open

President William Ruto has assured Members of Parliament (MPs) that the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG- CDF) will be disbursed to their constituencies before schools reopen in January 2024.

President Ruto made the remarks on Friday, December 8, during the commemoration of the Kikuyu Constituency Education (KICE) Foundation’s ten-year milestone and the inauguration of the foundation’s endowment fund.

“I want to assure MPs who are here because they are our partners in matters delivery of education, that don’t worry, the money for you to disburse for bursaries in January will be in the account before the schools open,” stated President Ruto.

The President’s remarks emerged a few days after a standoff in the National Assembly on Tuesday, December 5 when MPs halted activities, pressing for the prompt release of their NG-CDF allocations from the Treasury.

First time gathering of newly elected MPs after the 2022 general election. PHOTO/COURTESY

While chanting, “no CDF, no parliament,” the MPs had walked out of the house chambers protesting the delayed disbursement of CDF.

In a show of solidarity, both Kenya Kwanza and Azimio legislators united in paralyzing parliament activities in the afternoon session, as they demanded release of NG -CDF.

The move was triggered by National Assembly minority leader Opiyo Wandayi who had called on the MPs to stop House business until the matter was resolved.

“We are now in the sixth month of FY 2023/2024. As we speak, since this House appropriated funds to the NG-CDF board for disbursement to respective NG-CDF committees, not a single cent has hit the bank accounts of these committees, and definitely NGAAF,” said Wandayi.

Acknowledging the delay in fund disbursement, Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung’u attributed the challenge to prevailing liquidity challenges in the country.

Ruto narrates success story of Kisii plumber who benefited from KSh1.7 million Hustler Fund loan — President William Ruto makes State of The Nation address in Parliament. PHOTO: National Assembly/ Twitter

However, President Ruto has emphasized the government’s dedication to prioritize the disbursement of the NG-CDF, particularly to ensure that students reliant on these funds for bursaries are not affected.

The President underscored the critical role played by the NG-CDF in assisting underprivileged students, pledging to fast-track its allocation to prevent any adverse impact on the beneficiaries.

He reiterated the government’s focus on safeguarding the educational pursuits of deserving students and ensuring equitable access to resources.