Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) in Kenya are demanding a substantial 700% salary increase, claiming that their current pay of KSh 80,000 is insufficient and does not reflect the critical responsibilities of their roles.
Speaking at the 5th County Assembly Summit in Nairobi, the MCAs expressed their frustration with the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), accusing the body of neglecting their welfare and failing to address the increasing demands of their work.
In a passionate address, Nairobi County Assembly Majority Leader Peter Imwatok argued that the salaries of MCAs should be aligned with those of governors, considering the significant roles they play in governance.
“We are tasked with overseeing county operations, representing our constituents, and making decisions that affect the future of our counties, yet we are paid like cleaners,” Imwatok said. “It is time that our pay reflects the gravity of our responsibilities.”
The MCAs have called for a 700% salary increase, insisting that the current salary of KSh 80,000 does not adequately compensate them for their work. They argue that their roles have grown more complex, with increased workloads and greater expectations from the public, but their pay has remained stagnant.
“We are expected to perform duties that affect millions, but the pay does not match the importance of the job,” said Busia Nominated MCA Concepta Omondi.
In addition to the salary increase, the MCAs resolved to push for the implementation of the Ward Development Fund and greater financial autonomy from the County Executive. They believe that these measures are essential to improving their oversight capabilities and ensuring that service delivery at the grassroots level is more effective.
“Without financial independence, we are unable to perform our duties properly,” added Omondi.
“The Ward Development Fund will empower us to allocate resources directly to the communities, bypassing unnecessary interference from the County Executive, and ensuring that funds are used where they are most needed.”
The demand for a significant salary increase and more financial autonomy comes at a time when they feel undervalued and underappreciated in the face of mounting pressure to deliver results.
While critics have questioned the feasibility of such a large salary increase, the MCAs remain resolute, arguing that their work is critical to the functioning of county governments.