Opposition Claims Ruto Could Use NIF For Re-Election Campaign
Politics Updated: 06 March 2026 14:00 EAT
United opposition leaders in Chuka, Tharaka Nithi County
Kenya’s opposition leaders have accused President William Ruto’s administration of planning to use the proposed National Infrastructure Fund (NIF) to support political activities ahead of the 2027 General Election. The claims come as debate intensifies over the National Infrastructure Fund Bill currently before Parliament.
Leaders from the United Opposition, including figures allied to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, say the fund could become a financial tool for the ruling administration to influence the next election.
They argue that the structure of the fund would allow large amounts of public money to be managed outside the normal annual budget process, raising fears about transparency and oversight.
Opposition leaders claim the proposed fund, which aims to mobilise trillions of shillings for infrastructure projects, could become a semi-autonomous pool of resources controlled by the executive with limited parliamentary scrutiny.
They have urged lawmakers to reject the National Infrastructure Fund Bill in its current form, warning that weak accountability safeguards could open the door to misuse of public funds.
Some opposition figures have also questioned the role of Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, alleging that Parliament may not have been fully informed about the legal structure and governance model of the fund.
Critics further argue that government plans involving the sale or partial privatisation of state assets could increase the financial resources flowing into the fund, making it even more powerful.
However, government officials have defended the initiative, saying the fund is designed to mobilise alternative financing for major infrastructure projects without relying heavily on public borrowing.
Supporters of the bill say it will accelerate the development of roads, energy, housing and other key sectors while attracting private sector investment into national projects.
The proposal has now become a major political flashpoint, with the opposition warning of potential misuse while the government insists the fund is essential for accelerating Kenya’s infrastructure development agenda.
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FELIX MAKONA
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