Former Kieni MP Nemesyus Warugongo has appealed to Kenyans and well-wishers to assist him to offset medical bills that have accumulated for years.
His plight was highlighted by Dickson Ndirangu in mid-November 2020. Ndirangu is an aide to Kieni MP Kanini Kega, who succeeded Warugongo in 2013.
The aide detailed that the former legislator has been unwell for a long time but did not disclose the illness nor the amount needed.
"The fundraising will be held on November 26, 2020, at the Panafric hotel in Upper Hill, Nairobi from 4 pm.. to 8 p.m.
"Contributions can also be sent through pay bill numbers. We thank Hon Kanini Kega for supporting the MP (even before we settled on a fundraiser. Let us (area residents) remember how we used to invite him to so many fundraisers during his times," Ndirangu appealed.
The former lawmaker served as a one time MP, from 2007 to 2013. Kega is a close friend to President Uhuru Kenyatta and the event is expected to attract a number of politicians and celebrities.
Warugongo's situation highlights one of the reasons MPs were pushing for hefty packs and pension after retirement in August 2020.
The lawmakers proposed that they, alongside their spouses retain a medical scheme of Ksh 10 million for the inpatient cover per family, Ksh 300,000 for the outpatient cover, Ksh 150,000 for maternity and Ksh 75,000 for dental care.
They further wanted MPs who have only served for one term to be eligible for a pension. Currently, only MPs who have served for two terms get the retirement packages.
The amendment further proposed that one term MPs receive a send-off package equivalent to 31% of their pay and a refund of their pension contributions without interest.
Parliament failed to pass the bill. Efforts by the MPs to, later on, award former MPs Ksh 100,000 monthly pension did not materialize after the Head of State declined to ascend to the bill.
