MPs pile pressure on CS to release funds

Treasury CS Njuguna Ndung'u. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

The delay in disbursement of the National Government Constituency Development Funds (NG-CDF) continues to stoke discontent, with MPs fearing backlash from their constituents.

Learning for thousands of needy students across the country is now in jeopardy due to failure by the government to release Sh63 billion NG-CDF funds - 75 per cent of the quarterly allocation - to the 290 constituencies for the current financial year.

The development has soured the relationship between the Executive and MPs. The law sets aside 2.5 percent of the total national revenue raised to be shared out among the constituencies. The passage into law of the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (Amendment) Bill last month also saw bursary allocations increased from an earlier 35 per cent to 40 per cent.

This means that out of the Sh63 billion owed to constituencies, approximately Sh25.2 billion is expected to go towards bursaries.

It is these funds that MPs have been banking on to not only undertake development projects in their constituencies but also assist students from impoverished families.

Last month, President William Ruto reassured legislators that the NG-CDF allocations would be released before schools re-open, a promise that has not been fulfilled.

This consequently led to a revolt by MPs who are now baying for the impeachment of Treasury CS Njuguna Ndung'u.

However, Ndungu explanation last Wednesday that the inability to disburse the billions is occasioned by empty government coffers has done little to ease the situation.

The MPs sustained their attacks on the CS, further accusing him of incompetence.

Tongaren MP John Chikati said "as a CS, you cannot stand and announce that there is a cash crunch in the country. He may cause investors to pull out. Why can't he consult the president and other leaders within government on the way forward before making such a reckless announcement?"

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna also implored the State to act with haste and release the funds.

Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo said MPs were considering calling a special sitting to initiate the ouster of Treasury CS Ndung'u and removal of NG-CDF Chief Executive Officer Yusuf Mbuno. Kabuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga criticised the Treasury for reallocating funds meant for the CDF kitty to other ministries.