Jubilee Party presidential flagbearer Fred Matiang’i Speaking during a church service at Weithaga ACK Church in Murang’a County on March 15, 2026. 
By Andrew Mbuva.
Jubilee Party presidential flagbearer Fred Matiang’i has criticized what he described as excessive government spending at State House, terming it a symbol of misplaced national priorities.
Speaking during a church service at Weithaga ACK Church in Murang’a County, where he attended the laying of a foundation stone for a new conference centre, Matiang’i questioned the rationale behind the increasing allocation to State House Nairobi while key public institutions continue to struggle with limited funding.
The former Interior Cabinet Secretary singled out the Kenya National Trading Corporation, arguing that it plays a critical economic role yet receives less funding than the presidency.
“Why should State House need more money than the Kenya National Trading Corporation? No children are being born there,” Matiang’i said, adding that the growing budget has become a channel for political patronage and bribery.
Matiang’i said the country must rethink its spending priorities, warning that continued expansion of the State House budget undermines efforts to strengthen institutions that directly support economic growth and public welfare.
He pledged that, if elected president, he would reduce the State House budget by up to 80 per cent and redirect the funds to priority sectors of the economy.
The Jubilee candidate also criticized what he termed as policy inconsistencies in the education sector, accusing the current administration of offering shifting explanations instead of clear and stable reforms.
“Kenyans are given a new excuse every day rather than firm policy direction,” he said.
Matiang’i further emphasized that leadership should be measured by performance and accountability rather than longevity in public office.
He noted that some leaders have remained in positions of power for many years but cannot point to tangible achievements, stressing that Kenya’s development has historically been driven by hard work and collective responsibility.
He added that he is ready to work with leaders from across the political divide to advance the country’s development agenda.
The event was hosted by the Diocese of Mount Kenya Central and Matiang’i was received by Timothy Gichere as congregants gathered to witness the launch of the church’s planned conference centre project.
