Parliament Summons Treasury CS Mbadi Over Delayed NG-CDF and NGAAF Disbursements
Members of Parliament have summoned Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi to appear before the House on Wednesday following delays in disbursing the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) and the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF). The move comes just two weeks before schools reopen across the country.
In a heated session on Tuesday, legislators accused CS Mbadi of reneging on his promise to release the funds in a timely manner. Despite assurances that disbursements would occur in phases, MPs revealed that only a quarter of the funds had been released so far.
The delays prompted MPs to suspend all other House business in protest, with some threatening to boycott future sittings if the issue remains unresolved. The funds are vital for issuing bursaries and supporting infrastructure development at the grassroots level.
Kitui Central MP Makali Mulu led the charge, criticizing the Treasury for what he described as the “worst year” of NG-CDF releases. “How I wish the Chair Budget or Majority Leader would see to it that the money is wired before the CS comes tomorrow,” Mulu said.
Marakwet East MP Kangogo Bowen echoed the frustration: “We have less than 10 days before the schools reopen. The kids are going to go back without bursaries, and the CS has not kept his word. He told us he would release money weekly. So far, only a quarter has been disbursed.”
Laikipia North MP Sarah Korere urged Mbadi to ensure the money is released before appearing before the House. “He’d better come here with evidence that the funds have been disbursed. Otherwise, we will hold him until it’s done,” she stated.
Attempts by Speaker Moses Wetang’ula to restore order were met with strong resistance. He eventually reassured MPs, saying, “CDF is central to the management of constituencies. It is here to stay, and Treasury must prioritize it in their exchequer releases.”
Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah emphasized the urgency of the matter, calling on MPs to attend Wednesday’s session in full force. “Two months to the end of the financial year, all the money should already be disbursed. We will hold the CS accountable for his promises,” Ichung’wah said.
The standoff highlights growing tension between Parliament and the Treasury over delays in the release of critical development funds, especially those that impact education and local infrastructure.
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Parliament Summons Treasury CS Mbadi Over Delayed NG-CDF and NGAAF Disbursements