KENYA: Deputy President William Ruto has asked Members of Parliament to amend the law to lower the proposed retirement perks for himself, Mr Raila, Mr Musyoka, the Chief Justice and other State Officers.
“I respect the constitutional principle of separation of powers, but I urge Parliament to review this Bill with a view of making the package reasonable and not extravagant. Retirement benefits are meant to make individuals live a fair life, but not an extravagant one,” Ruto said on Wednesday evening.
With a majority in Parliament being MPs allied to the Jubilee coalition, Mr Ruto’s call is akin to an order to his troops to change the Bill that is sponsored by Suba MP John Mbadi from the rival Coalition for Reform and Democracy.
Mr Ruto said the retirement perks proposed in the Retirements Benefits (Deputy President and Designated State Officers) Bill, 2013 were “extravagant” and thus, they ought to be reduced to ensure the wage bill is sustainable.
“The government supports any move that ensures public servants continue to live in dignity when they retire. Any package for retirees must be modest and contextualised to the economic reality of the country,” said Ruto, echoing remarks by the SRC chairpersonSarah Serem.
According to the calculations of the Salaries and Remuneration Commission, it will cost the taxpayer Sh484 million a year to cater for the retirees if the Bills are approved.
For instance, Mr Ruto’s package was estimated at Sh84.7 million per year.
He will also be entitled to two drivers; one personal assistant; one accountant; one secretary; two housekeepers; two senior support staff; two gardeners; two cooks; two cleaners; armed guards provided on request; diplomatic passport for self and spouse; office and office equipment; maintenance of vehicles and access to VIP lounges in all airports.-standardmedia.co.ke
