Ruto suspends hiring of CASs, number of advisors slashed, 47 parastatals dissolved

President William Ruto has announced further austerity measures to reduce expenditure in the government following the withdrawal of the Finance Bill 2024.

Some of the major changes announced by the President include the suspension of hiring of Chief Administrative Secretaries (CASs).

Parliament had already made the necessary legislative approvals that paved the way for the appointments that had been opposed.

The number of advisors in government will also be reduced by 50pc within the public service, with immediate effect.

Addressing the nation on Friday from State House, Ruto said 47 State Corporations with overlapping and duplicative functions will be dissolved, resulting in the elimination of their operational and maintenance costs, and their functions will be integrated into the respective line ministries.

Staff currently employed by the affected corporations will be transferred to ministries and other state agencies.

Additionally, public servants who have attained the retirement age of 60 years will be required to immediately proceed on retirement, with no extensions to their tenure of service.

Other measures outlined are the removal of budget lines providing for the operations of the offices of the First Lady, the spouses of the Deputy President, and the Prime Cabinet Secretary.

Also, budgetary provisions for confidential budgets in various Executive offices, including the President’s office have been removed. Similarly, the Budget for renovations across the government has also been reduced by 50pc.

Retirement

Public servants who have attained the retirement age of 60 years have been directed to proceed on leave.

“Public servants who attain the retirement age of 60 years shall be required to immediately proceed on retirement, with no extensions to their tenure of service” he said.

Harambees by state and public officers have been banned including non-essential travel.

“All non-essential travel by state and public officers is hereby suspended. No state officer and public servant shall participate in public contributions/ Harambees henceforth. The Attorney General is hereby directed to prepare and submit legislation to this effect and develop a mechanism for structured and transparent contributions for public, charitable, and philanthropic purposes”, he said.

The Head of State also suspended the purchase of new motor vehicles by the government for 12 months, except for security agencies. During this period, a new policy on transport for public officers will be developed.

“We are determined to carry out these and other changes to improve the quality, efficiency, and transparency in serving the people of Kenya and ensure that citizens receive maximum value for their resources from a public sector that prioritizes their welfare” he added.