Editor's Review

“I know a matter has been raised about salaries and allowances. That is very difficult I must admit."

President William Ruto now says it will be difficult for the Kenya Kwanza government to increase salaries for Members of County Assemblies (MCAs).

Speaking on Wednesday, August 16 during the Devolution conference in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, the President said there is a difficult task between increasing salaries for those employed and creating opportunities for the unemployed.

“I know a matter has been raised about salaries and allowances. That is very difficult I must admit because the balance between increasing the salaries of those of us who have jobs and creating opportunities for the four of five million Kenyans who do not have a job. That is a conversation we must have,” said Ruto.

The Head of State however noted that he will consult all relevant institutions including the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) on proper advisory on salaries and wages.

File image of President William Ruto with Tans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya.

President Ruto at the same time promised MCAs that they will be treated the same way as Members of Parliament (MPs).

“I want to tell members of county assembly that’s the conversation we are going to have and you are going to be treated the same way members of parliament are who are serving in the legislature,” he stated.

The President further mentioned that some individuals in state corporations and parastatals are earning more than himself.

“We have come to discover that there are people in parastatals who have awarded themselves salaries more than the president. And you ask yourself what is this job they are doing?” Ruto wondered.