Kenya’s Deputy President’s Office Braces for Staff Exodus Ahead of 2027 Elections
Nairobi, Kenya — The Office of the Deputy President is preparing for a wave of resignations as senior officials warn that dozens of employees may leave public service ahead of the 2027 General Election. The government has allocated an additional Sh95.4 million to cover gratuity payments for departing staff.
The issue came to light during budget discussions before the National Assembly Committee on Administration and Internal Security, chaired by Narok West MP Gabriel Tongoyo. Principal Administrative Secretary Moses Mbaruku revealed that political ambitions among employees are driving the expected turnover.
Political Ambitions Fuel Staff Departures
Mbaruku explained that many employees are on contract terms, and a significant number have signaled plans to exit public service—either to run for office or engage in political mobilization.
“Most of our staff are on contract, and many have indicated they may quit to join politics. We must also account for their gratuity,” Mbaruku told lawmakers.
The Office of the Deputy President had initially been allocated Sh3.581 billion for the 2026/2027 financial year, with Sh3.481 billion for recurrent expenses and Sh100 million for development. However, revised estimates now push the total budget to Sh3.676 billion, reflecting the additional Sh95.4 million for gratuity and personnel costs.
Lawmakers Question Budget Increase
Committee members scrutinized the budget adjustment, with Chairperson Gabriel Tongoyo pressing officials for clarity.
“There’s a slight increase of about Sh95 million from the initial estimates. Can you explain where this extra funding will be allocated?” Tongoyo asked.
Mbaruku defended the revision, stating that the office had maintained strong budget execution, with 94.1% of recurrent funds and 87.7% of development funds already utilized this fiscal year.
Funding Shortfall Threatens Key Functions
Despite the additional allocation, the office faces a Sh871.9 million deficit, as it requires Sh4.548 billion to fully implement its mandate. Officials warned that the shortfall could hinder coordination across government agencies, particularly those tied to the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
Under the development budget, Sh100 million has been earmarked for facility upgrades, including:
- Sh50 million for the Deputy President’s official residence in Karen
- Sh20 million for the Mombasa residence
- Sh1 million for Harambee House Annex
The refurbishment projects are scheduled to run from July 2026 to June 2027.
What’s Next?
As Kenya inches closer to the 2027 elections, political realignments are expected to trigger further resignations across government offices. The Deputy President’s office is just one of many institutions bracing for the impact.
Will the budget adjustments be enough to manage the looming staff crisis? Or will the funding gap disrupt critical government operations?
— Reported by Nexio News
