State House Fuel Bill Hits Ksh.298 Million in Six Months Despite Ruto’s Austerity Pledge

Months after President William Ruto pledged to cut government spending, new figures reveal that fuel consumption at State House and the offices of the President and Deputy President remains extremely high. In just six months of the 2025/26 financial year, the Presidency spent Ksh.298.58 million on fuel alone.

State House accounted for the bulk, using Ksh.202.96 million, making it the second-highest government fuel spender after the National Police Service, which consumed Ksh.377.65 million. The President’s office used Ksh.26.85 million, while the Deputy President’s office spent Ksh.68.77 million. These numbers raise questions about the government’s commitment to austerity.

Officials attribute the high fuel bill to frequent official travel. The audit noted that “government officials often travel with large entourages during project launches, meetings, and public events.” Costs include more than just vehicles, covering security, staff movements, accommodation, and other operational expenses.

Since taking office in September 2022, State House has used Ksh.1.092 billion on fuel, up from Ksh.481.39 million in FY 2024/25. If trends continue, the annual fuel bill could rise even higher.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has also contributed to the figures with nationwide empowerment programmes and active campaigning for the United Democratic Alliance. Critics argue that his frequent trips and combative political style, using slogans like “Fire si Fire” and “Wewe Goliathi,” are driving costs up further.

Overall, ministerial recurrent spending for FY 2025/26 stands at Ksh.1.80 trillion. In the first six months alone, Ksh.899.74 billion was spent, nearly 50% of the total allocation. State House now expects to spend Ksh.17 billion by the end of the year, almost double the original Ksh.8.5 billion.

For FY 2026/27, the Presidency has requested Ksh.20 billion, citing four new State lodges as the reason. Citizens are questioning priorities, particularly as many face rising living costs and economic pressures. Observers warn fuel spending could climb even higher as the country approaches the 2027 General Election, with leaders travelling extensively for political activities.