Quick Answer
Public money is your business. The Constitution gives you the right to take part in budget-making and to see how money is spent — through public participation, published budget documents, and the reports of the budget watchdogs.
Key facts
- Public participation in the budget is a constitutional requirement.
- Budget documents and audit reports are public.
- You can give input during the budget-making windows.
- Tracking spending is how you hold leaders to account.
Your right to take part
Articles 201 and 221 of the Constitution require public participation in budget-making. Both Parliament and county assemblies must open the budget to public input — it is not meant to be decided behind closed doors.
When and how to weigh in
The best moments to give your views are during the Budget Policy Statement and budget-estimates stages at national level, and in county budget forums at county level. You can submit views — in writing or in person — on what should be funded, cut or changed.
Tracking how money is spent
After the budget is passed, you can follow the money. The budget documents, the Controller of Budget’s implementation reports, and the Auditor-General’s audit reports are all public. Combined with your right of access to information, they let you see where money actually went.
Why this matters to you
The citizens who show up during the budget windows — armed with the published figures — are the ones who shift what gets funded, and who get answers when money goes missing.
Frequently asked questions
Can ordinary citizens take part in the budget?
Yes — public participation in budget-making is required by the Constitution.
Where can I see how public money is spent?
In the public budget documents and the reports of the Controller of Budget and Auditor-General.
When should I give my input?
During the Budget Policy Statement and budget-estimates stages, and at county budget forums.
Sources & references
- Constitution of Kenya 2010, Articles 201, 221 and 35 — klrc.go.ke
- Public Finance Management Act, 2012 — kenyalaw.org