Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has taken a swipe at President William Ruto, blaming him for the delayed disbursement of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) monies.
In a video posted on his X media account, Babu Owino talked tough on Ruto's administration accusing him of undermining the education system.
"Ruto has defiled our education system and must be stopped. 2024 is a year to put this defunct government to task to deliver to Kenyans and lower the cost of living," Babu said.
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Babu Owino emphasized the responsibility of the President as the head of the executive to ensure the timely release of CDF funds while noting the importance of education to the economy
"Education is the backbone of the economy; you cannot even run a country without education," he noted.
Babu Owino, known for his commitment to educational initiatives, particularly in his constituency, expressed concern over the impact of delayed funds on students.
"It is the role of the President to ensure that money meant for CDF is released on time so that our children can go to school on time," Babu declared.
"As Babu Owino, I have been issuing bursaries every year to the tune of around 17,000 applicants. Everyone who applies in my constituency receives bursaries because I know what education did for me, and I want the same for every child, especially those in the slums. I want them to enjoy the fruits of education one day," he added.
Ruto has DEFILED our Education system and must be stopped.2024 is a year to put this defunct government to task to deliver to Kenyans and lower the cost of living. pic.twitter.com/yg8o8n0RKD
— Babu Owino (@HEBabuOwino) January 2, 2024
Treasury CS Njuguna speaks on delayed CDF funds
On December 6, 2023, Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung'u appeared before the Finance Parliamentary Committee to address the delay in releasing funds for the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF).
Ndung'u cited a shortage of funds in the public coffers and challenges in revenue collection, leading to difficulties in meeting financial obligations, including salary payments.
"NG-CDF will be released as soon as the government has enough funds, at the moment we are not getting taxes as required and the government is having challenges paying salaries, so please bear with us, we are working around the clock to make things work," Ndung'u said
He assured lawmakers that the government is committed to resolving the standoff once sufficient funds are available.
Ndung'u attributed the economic challenges to global factors, such as the economic downturn and inflation, resulting in increased national debt.
To address a deficit of Ksh.90 billion, the CS proposed reducing government expenditure or seeking external resources, with the president actively engaging international partners for support.
