The Kenyan parliament has approved a supplementary budget of Ksh58.8 billion (US$684 million), which include funds allocated for elections, the war against terrorism in Somalia and other pending government expenditure.
Parliament’s approval of the emergency budget will allow the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), fighting the militia group the Al Shabaab in Somalia to access some US$87 million while some US$350 million will be used to settle pending government bills.
Kenyans are heading for elections on 4 March with a likelihood of a presidential run-off if the first round fails to get an outright winner with 51% of the vote.
Finance Minister Njeru Githae sought the approval of US$58 million for the run-off.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), which is conducting the polls, will receive the budgetary allocation, a supplementary estimate to help meet demands until the next government and parliament settles down to business.
Parliament is due to officially cease its operations Thursday, after serving its full five-year term, although its official term ends on 14 January.
The adjournment sine die will pave the way for the election of new lawmakers on 4 March.
