By Antynet Ford
A group of Members of Parliament and Senators have united to challenge the salary increases proposed by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission.
The increase coincides with public protests against high taxes.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino expressed on Facebook that MPs and other state officers should not receive any additional pay.
“Increasing salaries while Kenyans lack jobs, capital to start businesses, funds for education, and money for healthcare is disheartening,” he commented.
“Reject the salary increase.” Langa’ata MP Phelix Odiwour also rejected the proposed pay rise.
In a statement, he suggested that the situation seems almost deliberate.
“We are facing a crisis, and the SRC is suggesting a 14K increment! Do they want us to be attacked? I do not want it.” He declared.
Aldai MP Marianne Kitany also argued that considering the current national unrest and economic volatility, now is not the time to consider salary increases for public officials.
“Today, I discovered from the press that the Salaries and Remuneration Commission is proposing a Sh14,000 salary increase for Members of Parliament and other elected leaders.” she stated.
According to a Gazette Notice from August 9, 2023, state officers were slated to receive raises in salary and benefits starting July 1.
The Speakers of both the National Assembly and the Senate are expected to see their salaries increase to Sh1,208,362 from Sh1,185,327, along with a Sh40 million mortgage, Sh25,000 in airtime, and an official residence.
The Majority and Minority leaders’ salaries are anticipated to rise to Sh800,019 from Sh784,768. Furthermore, Members of Parliament and Senators are set to receive an increase in pay from Sh725,502 to Sh739,600.
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