Kenyan members of Parliament demand salary hike amid economic woes

While ordinary Kenyans are struggling with tough economic conditions, burdened by crushing taxes and soaring costs of living, Members of Parliament are asking the government to increase their already bloated paychecks. The lawmakers want their pay raised from the current Ksh.725,502 to Ksh.739,600 monthly. The MPs on Thursday, January 16, urged the newly appointed Salaries and Remuneration Commission commissioners to approve their request for a higher salary. The new team, led by chairman Sammy Chepkwony, include Dr. Gilda Odeya, Jane Njage, Leonid Ashindu, Geoffrey Omondi, Martin Kizito and Mohamed Abdi. National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah lamented that the previous commissioners froze pay rise because of Gen Z protests. He warned the new team against making such decisions. National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed said that lawmakers were often victimized by the previous team. Muhammed, who as perfected cheekiness and arrogance since joining President Ruto’s government, accused the commissioners of ignoring the lawmakers’ frustration. "SRC thinks the MPs are a bunch of jokers. They assume we are just enjoying security, air-conditioned offices, and a good time. I challenge them to address wage bill disparities in the public service," Mohamed said.