Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino have vehemently opposed the recent salary hikes announced by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) for state officials, amidst a backdrop of widespread public discontent over escalating taxes and demands for fiscal austerity.
The SRC’s decision, slated to take effect from July 1, 2024, entails significant increases for various government positions.
Cabinet Secretaries will see their salaries climb from sh. 957,000 to sh. 990,000, accompanied by enhanced allowances.
Principal Secretaries will now earn sh. 819,844, up from sh. 792,519, while Speakers of the National Assembly and Senate will enjoy salaries ranging from sh. 1.1 million to sh. 1.2 million. Governors and Members of Parliament are also slated for pay rises under the new scheme.
Senator Sifuna voiced strong disapproval, describing the reported increment of sh. 14,000 to his salary as unwarranted in light of the country’s economic hardships.
He emphasized, “I didnāt ask for it. I donāt need it. Itās still money, in a country where many have no income.”
His sentiments were echoed by MP Babu Owino, who criticized the decision against the backdrop of severe financial crises affecting ordinary Kenyans.
The SRC’s decision was officially gazetted in August 2023, outlining a phased implementation spread over two years beginning July 1, 2023. Notably, President William Ruto and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua opted to maintain their current salaries at sh. 1,443,750 and sh. 1,227,188 respectively, declining any adjustments.
Any reversal of these salary increases would require the SRC to de-gazette the notice, contingent upon further public participation and SRC’s subsequent decision-making process.
The controversy underscores broader concerns about fiscal responsibility and equity in resource allocation within Kenya’s governance framework.
Critics argue that such increments amidst economic challenges and widespread financial distress among citizens are insensitive and counterproductive.
The debate is likely to intensify as stakeholders and the public continue to scrutinize the implications and fairness of these salary adjustments in the broader context of national economic stability and public trust in government institutions.
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