The delayed approval of nominees to the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) has sparked controversy, with lawmakers accused of arm-twisting the nominees over the reinstatement of lucrative plenary sitting allowances.
Last Thursday, Members of Parliament voted to extend the approval period for President William Ruto’s list of nominees by 14 days. This delay, requested by a senior parliamentary leader, has been linked to behind-the-scenes negotiations to influence the new SRC team’s stance on allowances.
The Labour Committee, chaired by Runyenjes MP Eric Karemba, had already endorsed the nominees, including Sammy Chepkwony (chairperson), Martin Ong’oyi, Mohamed Aden, Jane Gatakaa, Leonid Ashindu, Gilda Odera, and Geoffrey Apollo. Despite this, Parliament opted to delay the report’s consideration until at least January.
SRC and MPs: A Longstanding Standoff
The ongoing standoff between MPs and the SRC is not new. Since the abolition of plenary sitting allowances in 2022 under the Lyn Mengich-led team, tensions have escalated. The SRC justified the move as part of its effort to streamline allowances and eliminate duplications. However, MPs argue that the absence of these allowances has demotivated members, with many prioritizing constituency work over House sittings.
The SRC’s decision followed a five-hour meeting in September 2022 at Safari Park Hotel, where MPs unsuccessfully lobbied for reinstating the allowances. The commission also capped MPs’ car engine capacity at 3,000cc, reduced mileage allowances from Ksh 187 to Ksh 119 per kilometer, and mandated duty payment for car grants. These changes sparked dissatisfaction, but the SRC stood its ground, citing the need for fiscal discipline.
New SRC Team Faces Early Challenges
As the National Assembly grapples with whether to prioritize the SRC nominees’ approval during a possible December 19 special sitting, the new team is already facing its “baptism of fire.” Sources indicate that MPs are leveraging the approval process to push for the reinstatement of the plenary allowances.
“There are concerns that interest in sittings is low. Unmotivated members prefer going to their constituencies,” a parliamentary source revealed. The new SRC team, tasked with navigating these demands, has yet to signal any willingness to reverse the abolition of the allowances.
Historical Context of Allowances Debate
The SRC’s 2022 reforms, which included a Ksh 150,000 house allowance for MPs, replaced plenary sitting allowances, a move designed to simplify and consolidate perks. However, MPs have continually expressed dissatisfaction with these reforms.
Before the swearing-in of the 13th Parliament, SRC’s notice set new allowances rates, described by experts as globally competitive. Despite the commission’s rationale, MPs have persistently criticized the reforms, arguing that they reduce incentives for parliamentary engagement.
The SRC has remained steadfast, emphasizing its mandate to ensure equitable remuneration and prevent the duplication of allowances. This commitment has placed it on a collision course with MPs, who argue that their workload and responsibilities justify additional perks.
Path Forward
While Parliament may convene for a special sitting before the December recess, insiders doubt that SRC matters will take precedence. “It may not be part of the Dec 19 agenda if they don’t agree. It may take time for the sides to find common ground,” another source disclosed.
Observers note that this stalemate reflects the deep-seated tensions between Parliament and the SRC, with the nominees caught in the crossfire. “With the level of disagreements, do you think MPs can leave the comfort of their recess to approve a matter concerning SRC?” a concerned officer asked rhetorically.
As the standoff continues, the SRC’s commitment to fiscal prudence will be tested against MPs’ demands for reinstating their abolished perks. How the new team navigates these challenges will likely define its early tenure.
