Ruto’s Office Under Fire Over KSh 2 Million Daily Printing Costs and KSh 1 Billion Advisory Bill
A new report by the Controller of Budget (CoB), Margaret Nyakang’o, has flagged staggering spending by the Executive Office of the President during the 2024/2025 financial year. The revelations have triggered outrage, raising questions about the government’s commitment to austerity as Kenyans continue to grapple with a high cost of living.
According to the national government budget implementation review report, President William Ruto’s office spent an average of KSh 2.2 million daily on printing services, amounting to KSh 817 million over the year. The report indicates that Harambee House’s total budget stood at KSh 4.6 billion, with nearly a fifth channeled into printing alone. The costs reportedly covered executive orders, policy documents, performance contracts, press briefings, proclamations, and presidential event invitations.
Officials cited an increase in high-profile meetings and the demand for premium-quality paper for State House events as drivers of the unusually high stationery costs.
Beyond printing, the CoB revealed that the Executive Office of the President allocated KSh 1 billion for advisory services. These funds catered to consultancy in areas such as counter-terrorism, economic policy, social affairs, and Kenya–South Sudan relations. Since assuming office, Ruto’s team of advisers has reportedly expanded to 20.
In addition, the report flagged KSh 3.6 billion in emergency withdrawals between May 14 and June 24, 2025. Approved under Article 223 of the Constitution, the funds were used for travel, hospitality, and fuel for presidential functions. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi authorised the withdrawals, but Nyakang’o cautioned against relying on emergency funds for routine programmes.
The report also noted that State House refurbishments have already consumed KSh 1.17 billion, with the works currently 66% complete and scheduled to run until 2027. Images previously shared by President Ruto during a tour with former President Uhuru Kenyatta showed parts of the renovations in progress.
These revelations come in the wake of public anger over the controversial Finance Bill 2024, which was withdrawn after nationwide protests led by Gen Z. Critics argue that the lavish spending undermines government appeals for budget cuts and international financial support.
As pressure mounts, Kenyans are demanding transparency and accountability in State House expenditures, with many questioning whether austerity is only being demanded from citizens, while the Executive continues unchecked extravagance.
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Ruto’s Office Under Fire Over KSh 2 Million Daily Printing Costs and KSh 1 Billion Advisory Bill