Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has questioned the rising cost of constructing Talanta Stadium, calling for greater scrutiny of public spending on the facility ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).Download our Mozzart Sport app for more newsThe senator said the projected cost of the 60,000-seater stadium had undergone several increases, moving from below Ksh20 billion to about Ksh35 billion before rising further to around Ksh45 billion.Speaking in the Senate, Sifuna referred to what he said were findings by the Auditor General concerning a Ksh10 billion variance that had not been adequately explained.##NAJAVA_MECA_9980414##He also questioned whether the controversy surrounding the naming of the facility was taking attention away from questions over how public funds have been spent.The arena was named Raila Odinga Stadium in honour of the late former Prime Minister, but the senator argued that attaching his name to the facility should not shield the project from scrutiny.“They want us to forget those things by slapping the name of our former hero, or Raila Odinga, on the stadium so that we don’t ask questions,” he said.McCarthy admits work permit issues could cost him dream Manchester United jobThe lawmaker maintained that opposition leaders were not opposed to the construction of public infrastructure, including roads and sporting facilities, but said their concern was how public resources were managed and spent.He also cited the long-running construction of Kamariny Stadium in Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet County, questioning why an earlier government commitment to complete the facility within six months had not been fulfilled.The senator further drew comparisons between the reported expenditure on Talanta Stadium and spending at State House, arguing that public resources should be directed towards projects that benefit citizens.Government seeking Ksh38.7 billion loan to upgrade stadiums across KenyaSifuna added that his side of the political divide would seek to reduce government expenditure and channel more resources towards citizens if given an opportunity to form the government.The debate over the stadium comes as Kenya continues preparations to co-host 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) alongside Uganda and Tanzania.BREAKING: Government moves to clear outstanding Harambee Stars allowancesTalanta Stadium is among the facilities earmarked for the continental tournament, with construction forming part of Kenya’s wider preparations to meet the requirements for hosting the competition.CAF president Patrice Motsepe visited Kenya on Friday, 18 September, as part of a two-day tour of the three East African co-hosts.During his visit, he inspected Talanta Stadium and Kasarani Stadium and held talks with the Kenyan government on preparations for the tournament.##NAJAVA_MECA_9981531##Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania will host the 2027 AFCON, which is scheduled to take place from June to July next year.
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