Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Thursday, June 22, dared politicians seeking a salary raise to strike.
Speaking shortly after confirming the disbursement of Ksh16 billion Inua Jamii funds, Gachagua stated that he was also surviving on his salary as the government continues to deal with a cash crunch affecting salary disbursements.
Gachagua also dared the leaders to close down the counties if they deemed it necessary. At least 15 counties had shut down due to delays in funds from the national government.
"We do not have any money. They can put sufurias on your head and throw other tantrums but we do not have money to give them," he remarked.
Gachagua further urged them to be content with their salaries and serve the people since they vied for the seats willingly.
"You cannot vie for a seat knowing the salary and ask for a raise after you are elected. If you want to come work in my office, you are welcome but we do not have money," he added.
The second in command told the politicians to manage their salaries well without expecting a boost from the government adding that the main focus was to pay the elderly.
He explained that the money, currently under the management of the government, was meant for development such as the construction of roads and distribution of fertiliser.
MCAs Tussle with SRC
On June 14, the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) Chairperson Lyn Cherop proposed an increase in the salaries for Members of the County Assembly (MCA) and county speakers.
According to SRC, the MCAs will see their salaries increased by Ksh10,000 to reach Ksh164,588 from Ksh154,481.
On June 17, the MCA threatened to strike arguing that the increase was minimal, and gave the SRC a one-week ultimatum to revise the proposal and increase the raise.
"County Assemblies were not involved in the salary review. It is null and void. SRC must consider the welfare of county assemblies," Chair of the County Assemblies Forum and Elgeyo Marakwet MCA Philemon Sabulei stated.
