If you think the saying that goes “navumilia kuwa mkenya,” is for the dis-loyalists then wait until you hear the next burden the MPs are planning to make you carry it.
Despite allegations that the Kenyan MPs are the highest paid politicians, the craving so more money is always on the high note. The always have appetite for better lifestyles.
All 416 Members of Parliament, Speakers of both houses and the leaders of majority in both chambers will each be provided with a rent-free house, a government vehicle, an expanded medical cover, travel allowances and an expanded constituency outreach operation, if a new Bill becomes law.
Proposals for better terms for legislators — already among the best-paid in the world with a Sh1.2 million salary — are contained in the Parliamentary Service Bill that is set for debate in the National Assembly tomorrow afternoon.
The Bill is partly based on the recommendations of the National Assembly Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs.
The parliamentary committee, chaired by Baringo North MP William Cheptumo, tabled the report in the National Assembly last Thursday.
Leaders of Majority and their deputies as well as Majority and Minority whips and their deputies in both Houses will also be accommodated under this facility to be administered by the Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC), chaired by National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi.
The proposed housing perks are on top of the Sh20 million mortgage facility that each MP gets and which is subject to an interest rate of three per cent per annum that must be fully paid by the end of the five-year parliamentary term.
Currently, mortgage to MPs is only anchored on regulations and not in law, as is required.
“To enable the members discharge their responsibilities effectively and for efficient functioning of Parliament, these services and facilities shall be provided in such a manner and in such rates as the commission may determine from time to time, taking into account the rate applicable for other state officers,” the report suggests.
Although Kenyan MPs are ranked among the best paid in the world, they have complained that they are not treated well compared to Cabinet Secretaries and judges.
Therefore, the report recommends that they get enhanced medical cover that would include their extended families, as well as improved allowances for domestic and international travel.
A gazette notice by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission, which contains salary schemes for government employees, limits insurance cover for State and public officials to one spouse and four children below 25 years. The children must be enrolled in local schools.
The committee has, in the course of preparing its report, visited the US, the UK, Northern Ireland, New Zealand and India. Among the improvements it is asking for are bigger tea pots, a better bar, five-star chefs, and new bidets in the toilets.
If these suggestions are implemented fully, service in the legislative arm of government will be one of the most attractive in the country.