Alego Usonga, Member of Parliament and Budget Committee Chair, Sam Atandi /SCREENGRAB
Speaking at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Tuesday, Atandi recounted his initial visit to State House during former President Uhuru Kenyatta's tenure.
He asserted that the current refurbishment efforts are essential to modernise the facility, ensuring it is suitable for hosting dignitaries and reflective of Kenya's status.
"State House is an old house. If you've ever been there, you'll realise it was in a deplorable state. During my first visit, I found the place filthy," he said.
"We can't have a country where the Office of the President is in such a condition, especially when we're hosting guests."
The renovations have stirred public debate, with concerns over the project's cost and timing amid economic challenges.
Documents submitted to the National Assembly's Administration and Internal Security Committee revealed that as of September 2024, State House Nairobi had spent Sh775 million out of an estimated Sh1.77 billion for the refurbishment, marking a 44 per cent completion rate.
State House Comptroller Katoo Ole Metito defended the expenditure, noting that the renovations are being funded and undertaken by the National Intelligence Service (NIS) and the Department of Defence (DoD).
He emphasised that the upgrades are vital for maintaining the facility's structural integrity and security, stating, "This is a security facility that attracts security budgets."
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi also addressed the issue, defending the State House facelift.
He highlighted the necessity of the renovations, citing issues like leaking roofs and the importance of the venue in hosting international delegations.
"It had reached a point where State House was leaking. One can question the extent of the renovation, but you cannot question whether we needed a facelift of the facility. This is where we host all the international delegations," Mbadi said.
