Senate
- Add new comment
- 399 views
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.
Comments
The good work the Gen Z are doing is beginning to bear fruits. They should keep pushing for more positive changes to include sending Ruto home.
Siku hizi za milipuko ya Gen Z ni lazima Nguruwe ziruke mitego
Any elected "servant of the people" (politician) seen speaking in any place of worship and giving money to a crooked man or woman lying that they are serving an alien "deity" should be arrested immediately and suspended from any position that they currently hold in the government.
They are rejecting the hike because they do not want their personal property burnt or damaged and are selfishly looking out for themselves.Let us stop pretending if the government refuses to hold elections and Ruto has already stated he is going no where let’s see how many of these MPIGS will be able to hold on with the “ new austerity measures put in place if Ruto is not lying about cutting down spending .
They are rejecting the hike because they do not want their personal property burnt or damaged and are selfishly looking out for themselves.Let us stop pretending if the government refuses to hold elections and Ruto has already stated he is going no where let’s see how many of these MPIGS will be able to hold on with the “ new austerity measures put in place if Ruto is not lying about cutting down spending .
We like to ape the west.Nothing wrong here if it's for our own good,but if it's to our detriment,we should step back and at least use some common sense.
Relative to the USA's economy, representatives,and legislators are not paid much.Interestingly,they hardly complain,or demand more money.Now contrast that with Kenyan counterparts...
Relative to our economy Mpigs and other government officials are paid way too much.Rather should I say they pay themselves too much.They have turned the parliament in a cash cow.
My suggestion is this. If elected leaders truly are committed to serving the public(have acalling), we should set a fix salary and benefits scale,adjusted only to cost of living increases.If they perform well, they get re- elected,or their terms increased.That is their bonus.Trust me, with"unattractive benefits"only those committed to serving the public will dare run for public offices.And yes it can be done.