National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has mandated that all committee meetings be conducted within the Parliament premises.

He said this would be aligning with the government’s austerity measures to reflect the nation’s current economic situation.

In a directive issued to the House on Friday, Wetangula emphasized that if the Parliament’s meeting rooms are insufficient, sessions should be held in other government facilities.

Rather than luxurious hotels, which has become the norm.

Wetangula confirmed receiving the Supplementary Estimates for the Financial Year 2024/25 from the National Treasury.

These estimates aim to rationalize the Ksh.3.9 trillion budget and implement necessary budget cuts across the three branches of government.

Following the National Assembly Standing Orders, Wetangula transmitted the executive message while the members are on recess, ensuring it was addressed upon their return.

He instructed the Budget and Appropriations Committee to oversee the process, gather public input, and report back to the House by Wednesday, July 24.

This will facilitate the House’s consideration of the Supplementary Estimates and the required legislative measures to actualize the proposed budget reductions.

Additionally, Wetangula directed Samuel Njoroge, the Clerk of the National Assembly, to disseminate this notification to all MPs.

Furthermore, publish the Supplementary Estimates on the parliamentary website, facilitate the relevant committees in their review.

And ensure that all meetings are held within Parliament.

President William Ruto’s administration has faced criticism in recent months, with Kenyans calling for reduced public expenditure to match the current economic realities.

Government officials were also accused of displaying opulent lifestyles while the public struggles with high living costs.

This discontent spurred anti-government protests, prompting President Ruto to drop the Finance Bill 2024 and dissolve his Cabinet.

Cutting costs

In response, Ruto implemented additional austerity measures.

Including eliminating the offices of the First and Second Lady from the budget.

Cutting the number of government advisors by 50%, and dissolving 47 state corporations with overlapping functions.

He also announced the removal of confidential budgets in Executive offices and a 50% reduction in government renovation budgets.

Wetangula’s directive to conduct all parliamentary committee meetings within government facilities reflects the broader efforts.

To align government spending with the economic challenges faced by the nation.