Silverio Omari
Nominated Senator Crystal Asige has alleged that Kenya is set to receive a new Ksh.156 billion loan from the World Bank under the condition of resettling 400,000 refugees within the country. Speaking in the Senate, Asige called for an investigation into the government’s acceptance of these funds, questioning the terms of the agreement and the necessity of integrating such a large number of refugees.
She urged the Standing Committee on Finance to clarify whether the funding is a loan or a grant and to provide details on why refugee resettlement is tied to its approval.
Asige also pressed for an explanation regarding the origin and current status of the 400,000 refugees in Kenya, demanding transparency on the criteria for their presence in the country. Her statements coincide with ongoing internal challenges within President William Ruto’s administration, including protests by Gen Z youths over governance issues.
Following these protests and public pressure, Ruto withdrew an unpopular Finance Bill 2024 and pledged fiscal reforms to cut government expenditure. Additionally, he initiated a committee to conduct a thorough audit of Kenya’s debts, aimed at formulating sustainable repayment strategies.
