Members of Parliament have expressed outrage over the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) and the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (Kippra) spending more than Sh300 million annually on rent, despite numerous vacant government-owned buildings.
The revelation has sparked a heated debate on fiscal responsibility and the efficient use of public resources.
During a parliamentary session, MPs criticized the agencies for leasing private office spaces while state-owned properties remain underutilized.
The concerns have prompted a directive to the National Treasury to issue clear rent guidelines and prioritize the use of public buildings by December 31, 2025.
“This is an unacceptable waste of taxpayer money,” said a member of the parliamentary committee overseeing public expenditure.
“We have government offices lying idle while agencies spend millions on rent. This must stop.”
The directive aims to curb unnecessary expenditure and ensure government institutions maximize available public infrastructure.
KNBS and Kippra officials says they will work on the said proposals and be ready before the end of the treasury guidelines. Pressure is mounting for swift action to address the issue.
The Treasury is expected to present a compliance report to Parliament by the end of the year, as Kenyans await reforms to enhance accountability in public spending.
