‘Left to Rot’: Mbadi Defends Multimillion State House Uplift

NAIROBI, Kenya – Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has defended the government’s multibillion-shilling investment in State House renovations, saying the official residence had been neglected for years and had fallen into disrepair.

Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV station on Wednesday, July 1, Mbadi dismissed criticism over the Sh1.18 billion refurbishment, arguing that State House, as the country’s seat of power, should project a positive image to both Kenyans and visiting foreign dignitaries.

He claimed the condition of the historic building had deteriorated significantly before renovation works commenced.

“The truth of the matter is that if you saw the State House that we have been having, it had been left to rot, and that is the seat of power,” Mbadi said.

The CS maintained that maintaining presidential residences is standard practice around the world, pointing to the United States as an example.

“Even if you look at the White House, they always maintain it, and it looks beautiful. So even our State House should not be left in a deplorable state,” he stated.

Mbadi further disclosed that sections of State House, including its roof, had developed leaks, describing the situation as unacceptable for a facility that regularly hosts presidents, monarchs and other high-profile guests.

“Where State House is leaking, that is a shame, and that is where you host international dignitaries,” he said.

He warned that the condition of the building could damage Kenya’s image on the global stage.

“The first impression they would have about Kenya is that these are very disorganised people,” Mbadi remarked.

Responding to concerns over the Presidency’s budget, the Treasury CS clarified that the funds allocated do not solely cater for State House in Nairobi.

“The Ksh11 billion budget, it is not just the State House that is counted there. We also have the State Lodges; we have the Presidency, and under the Presidency there is a lot there,” he explained.

His remarks come as the government’s spending on the refurbishment of State House and State Lodges continues to spark public debate, with critics questioning the expenditure amid economic hardships and growing calls for fiscal discipline.