The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) have come under scrutiny as the Ministry of Defence declined to divulge the breakdown of its Sh.135 billion expenditure for the 2022/2023 financial year.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, in a recent appearance before the National Assembly’s Committee on Defence and Foreign Relations, cited national security concerns as the reason for withholding the information.
According to a report presented to the committee, the expenditure encompassed various areas, including Sh.98 billion allocated for emoluments and salaries, Sh.28 billion for operational expenses such as those related to military bases and provisions like food, Sh.1.7 billion for equipment maintenance, Sh.1 billion for civil aid, Sh.1 billion for border security measures, and Sh.4 billion for the modernization of KDF equipment.
Despite calls from committee members led by MP Nelson Koech for transparency and accountability, Duale maintained that he could only disclose such sensitive information to the National Security Council, chaired by the Commander-In-Chief.
MPs raised concerns about the lack of a detailed breakdown, emphasizing the need for transparency to ensure the proper utilization of funds and prevent potential misappropriation.
Kajiado Central MP Elijah Memusi pressed for specifics, questioning the nature of the modernization efforts and whether they represented value for money.
In a heated exchange, Kinangop MP Thuku Kwenya echoed the sentiment, demanding clarity on the utilization of the Sh.135 billion allocation.
However, Duale remained resolute, particularly regarding the Sh.98 billion designated for salaries and allowances, citing concerns over national security.
“The disclosure of the number of security personnel poses a direct threat to national security,” Duale asserted.
“Such sensitive information is only discussed in the National Security Council under the leadership of the Commander-In-Chief.”
The standoff between the parliamentary committee and the Defence Ministry underscores the delicate balance between transparency and security in government expenditures, leaving crucial details of the KDF budget shrouded in secrecy.
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