Eric Omondi, now active in politics, has taken a bold step by filing a petition urging President William Ruto to reduce his extensive travels, which come at the expense of taxpayers. His move coincides with the government’s impending announcement of the budget for the upcoming financial year, which is already controversial due to the proposed Finance Bill, 2024.
This bill aims to introduce several new taxes burdening Kenyans further. Omondi, appearing on Citizen TV’s ‘JKLive’ show, emphasized the importance of implementing austerity measures by both the Executive and Legislature. He pointed out President Ruto’s significant expenditure on travel, funded by taxpayer money, as an area needing immediate attention.
“I want to challenge the government, from the President to the Deputy President, to the CSs, PSs and Members of Parliament to take a pay cut for just one year. I have petitioned the President to travel less. I don’t know how far it will go but you will see it in court tomorrow,” said Omondi.
“The President has traveled 68 times and he carries a huge delegation. The money that Joe Biden gave to Kenya following Ruto’s visit vis-a-vis the money spent on that trip including the plane that was used, is not adding up. We must hold this government accountable.”
Eric Omondi’s petition advocates for a more selective approach to President Ruto’s travel engagements, suggesting that some trips could be delegated to top ministers who typically travel with smaller entourages.
He emphasizes the need to prioritize spending and focus on development rather than honoring every invitation, especially considering the significant taxpayer funds involved in presidential travel. Omondi also criticizes President Ruto for not fulfilling campaign promises and neglecting the needs of ordinary Kenyans who supported his election.
“I want to personally call out President William Ruto. The problem we are experiencing today is an issue of promises not kept. The President campaigned for two years and his rhetoric was simple: If I get elected I will deliver to you serikali ya mama mboga na mtu wa bodaboda,” said Omondi.
According to Omondi, the reality has been starkly different from the promises made on the campaign trail.
“As I am seated here, it is the exact opposite; the priorities of Kenya Kwanza are upside down. This issue about people being overtaxed; if you look at where this money is going, they have so far gone to all the State lodges including the State House and renovated…Ksh.2.8 billion (spent) in three months,” Omondi said.
