The political storm surrounding former Budget and Appropriations Committee Chair Ndindi Nyoro has intensified after Deputy Majority Leader Owen Baya demanded the Treasury disclose geographical data on development projects across counties and constituencies.
Speaking in Parliament on Wednesday, the Kilifi North MP urged the Treasury to submit the data by April 30, allowing legislators to assess whether certain constituencies received disproportionately higher funding.
“The Treasury must provide a breakdown of development projects per county and constituency by April 30, 2025,” Baya insisted.
He further emphasized, “This is crucial. We have witnessed inequitable development, where some areas receive substantial funding while others are deliberately overlooked, either for political reasons or otherwise.”
The Budget and Appropriations Committee, formed after the 2022 elections, was tasked with overseeing the national budget and ensuring equitable resource distribution. Led by Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro and vice-chaired by Teso South MP Mary Emase, the committee includes several MPs responsible for national financial oversight.
However, on Tuesday, Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah accused members of the committee of unfairly channeling more funds to their own constituencies at the expense of others.
“This House cannot stand by and allow members of the Budget and Appropriations Committee to manipulate allocations for their personal gain while other Kenyans suffer,” Ichung’wah declared.
The controversy has fueled further scrutiny of lawmakers linked to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Though Nyoro has not publicly aligned himself with Gachagua, his silence has raised concerns among President William Ruto’s allies.
“The issue arises when individuals in key committees misuse their positions to prioritize projects in their own constituencies instead of adhering to public interest,” Ichung’wah argued.
Under Nyoro’s leadership, Kiharu Constituency has experienced rapid development, particularly in education. In November 2024, he launched over 100 projects worth Ksh100 million, including upgrading schools, constructing administrative offices, and implementing environmental programs.
In January 2024, he introduced the “Masomo Bora” initiative, lowering day secondary school fees to Ksh1,000 per term, benefiting around 15,000 students. His strategies have set a precedent, prompting other MPs to visit Kiharu for insights into his development model.
This has sparked tensions, with some legislators alleging Kiharu receives disproportionate funding.
“I want to see how much has been allocated to my constituency, how many projects are being implemented, and how this compares to other regions,” Baya stated.
It remains uncertain whether the Treasury will comply with the request and whether the data will support or disprove the allegations. Meanwhile, Ndindi Nyoro continues to serve as a member of the Budget and Appropriations Committee.
