Kenyan Members of Parliament are pressing for a salary increase from Ksh.725,502 to Ksh.739,600 per month, despite the harsh economic climate gripping the nation.
This proposal comes as ordinary Kenyans struggle under the weight of skyrocketing living costs, sparking widespread criticism.
During Thursday’s parliamentary session, lawmakers approved the appointment of new Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) commissioners, urging them to remain impartial in their duties.
The new team, led by Sammy Chepkwony, includes Dr. Gilda Odeya, Jane Njage, Leonid Ashindu, Geoffrey Omondi, Martin Kizito, and Mohamed Abdi.
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah accused the outgoing SRC commissioners of withholding MPs’ pay increments due to the Gen Z protests.
He warned the new appointees against similar decisions, asserting that MPs deserve a pay rise like other Kenyans.
“They tried to play populist politics by pitting MPs against the public during the protests. MPs, like everyone else, deserve fair compensation,” Ichung’wah argued.
Minority Leader Junet Mohamed echoed these sentiments, alleging the previous commission treated lawmakers unfairly.
“SRC assumes MPs enjoy luxury while ignoring the wage disparities in public service,” he lamented.
Mombasa Woman Representative Zamzam Mohamed joined the chorus, advocating for a more substantial pay hike to match the value MPs bring to society.
“Our salaries often go back to serving our communities. We need a meaningful increase to reflect the tough economic times,” she explained.
However, the push for higher pay has drawn sharp criticism from Kenyans.
Online, citizens expressed anger over the move, questioning the morality of seeking a raise when most civil servants earn far less.
“How can MPs ask for more when others earn so little? They’re out of touch with reality,” one comment read.
Notably, Kenyan lawmakers are among the highest-paid globally.
A 2020 report by the UK Parliamentary Standards Authority and the International Monetary Fund ranked them second worldwide.
Surpassing legislators in wealthier nations like the U.S. and Japan.
The public outrage highlights a growing disconnect between the country’s leaders and its citizens.
While MPs argue their salaries support their constituencies, many Kenyans see this push as prioritizing self-interest over national welfare.
