Kenyan MPs, Senators Reject Salary Hikes by SRC
Kenyan Members of Parliament (MPs) are facing intense public scrutiny over a proposed salary increase amidst the country's ongoing economic challenges.
The Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) recently conducted a review and update of monthly remuneration for state officers. The SRC proceeded with salary adjustments for various positions despite an ongoing standoff between the government and citizens regarding excessive spending by officials. Notably, President William Ruto and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua are exempted from these increases. Under the new proposal, MPs' gross salaries are set to rise from Sh 725,502 to Sh 739,600. This increment has drawn significant criticism, particularly given Kenya's current economic difficulties and the pressing need for fiscal prudence.
The adjustments also extend to other state officers including Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, and county governors. For instance, the Prime Cabinet Secretary, Cabinet Secretaries, Attorney-General, Head of Public Service, and Secretary to the Cabinet will see their gross salaries increase from Sh 957,000 to Ksh 990,000. The SRC plans to implement the new salary structure in two phases over the financial years 2023/2024 and 2024/2025. Despite public outcry, the commission has justified the adjustments, emphasizing the need to strike a balance between fair compensation and economic stability.
The proposed salary increase has ignited public outrage with many citizens questioning its timing and appropriateness. Given Kenya's high youth unemployment rate and other pressing economic issues, there is a growing sentiment that MPs should prioritize public service over personal financial gains. This public perception has led to protests and widespread criticism of the proposed changes. In response to the controversy, Senator Aaron Cheruiyot has called for MPs to reject the pay raise. Cheruiyot emphasizes the need for responsible leadership and fiscal restraint, particularly when many Kenyans are struggling to make ends meet.
Members of Parliament and Senators have formed a united front against the proposed salary increases for elected officials. Embakasi East MP Babu Owino took to Facebook to express his disapproval, asserting that neither MPs nor other state officers should receive any additional compensation.
Langa'ata MP Phelix Odiwour has questioned the timing and motives behind the proposed pay rise with his comments on social media platform X implying that the move could potentially incite public anger against elected officials.
Aldai MP Marianne Kitany stresses that the current economic instability and ongoing public demonstrations make it inappropriate to prioritize salary increases for public officials. Esther Passaris vehemently condemns the proposed increase as both scandalous and unacceptable. Passaris likens the pay rise to theft from those who have nothing, arguing that it directly contradicts the austerity measures needed to address the country's fiscal challenges.