United in greed: Only money unites Jubilee and NASA MPs

Even after the International Monetary Fund (IMF) raised concerns over high government borrowing, Jubilee and NASA MPs on Thursday united to push for higher allowances and salaries.

The MPs, who spoke after agreeing on a final list of PSC nominees following weeks of disagreements between NASA affiliate parties ODM and Wiper, asked the commission to push for better perks against the recommendations of the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).

When Majority Leader Aden Duale presented the final list with the names of the seven nominees, the MPs tune changed as Duale and Minority Leader John Mbadi struck a common stand.

“Mr. Speaker we must approve these names so that we get PSC running. When the commission is established, it is not for some parties,” said Duale.

“This commission must work for the welfare of members,” added Mbadi.

The legislators from both sides of the political divide who have been pulling in different directions stood united agreeing on higher salaries and other perks for themselves.

“SRC must know we are MPs. Even other civil servants have mortgages, even chiefs are given motorcycles and fuel allowances. MPs should also be afforded the same,” added Mbadi.

Wiper Party’s PSC nominee Momanyi promised to conduct a review of MPs mileage allowances as soon as the commission begins its sittings.

“We shall look as the new PSC matters to do with milleage,” said Momanyi.

Duale claimed that MPs are forced to bribe PSC staff in order to get mileage allowance warning that the trend must stop.

Last year, SRC issued a new pay structure in which MPs were to lose allowances, including a Ksh.5 million car grant. The cuts were however halted by the High Court after MPs challenged the decision.

Rarieda lawmaker Otiende Amollo challenged the term limit of two of the new commissioners, nominated senator Beth Mugo and Eldas lawmaker Adan Keynan.

“The law is clear on such a body. Why are we operating outside the law on these two nominees who have reached the six year term limit. It is an illegality Mr. speaker,” said Mr. Amollo.

The MPs also raised concerns over the conduct of some members.

MPs must keep a healthy distance with parliament staff. You must not do funny things with the staff of parliament. Do them outside there. Why should a staff drink with a member till 3 am when they should be preparing us notes for the induction,”said Duale.

“Mr. Speaker I think we hired staff here that are above 18 years. They know what to do but we must be disciplined as MPs,” said Mbadi.