With 175 politicians accused of swindling taxpayers still able to collect pensions after suspension, Anti-corruption and Ethics commission should stop the government from giving taxpayer money to the corrupt.
Since Kenya’s independence from Great Britain in 1963, government pensions in Kenya have been inviolate — a contractual obligation guaranteed by the Kenyan constitution. This applies to the most ignorant primary teachers as well as the most corrupt Members of Parliament. The only requirement was length of service.
This would strip benefits from those convicted of offenses such as embezzlement, bribery, perjury, drug traffickers, and abuse of office. It would also cover tampering with a government record and other offenses related to their duties.
“I believe it would overwhelmingly approve this constitutional referendum if it were placed on the ballot. People with felony convictions who violated their oaths of office sit comfortably in their offices collecting government pensions. This not only damages public faith. In addition, it is a clear waste of taxpayer money.
The time has come for a change.” Dishon Ndubai Kirangi, a Kirinyaga County based politician, stated.
In Western countries, when an elected official is sworn into office, they must sign a solemn Oath. This oath states that they will uphold the laws and the Constitution. It sets the highest standard for integrity – the public’s trust demands it. A violation of that trust, while in office, demands pecuniary as well as criminal penalty.
“It is critical that we enact a law that applies to all public officials. The public deserves nothing less.” Miano Maina, US based Attorney said.
The debate comes amid concern after the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) indicted 175 public officers with corruption allegations. It follows President Uhuru Kenyatta's refusal to sign into law the Retirement Benefits (Deputy President and Designated State Officers) Bill, 2013. The bill would have given their leader and former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka Sh21 million. Moreover, it promised Sh19.8 million in lump sum payments respectively.
The two would also have received Sh960, 000. In addition, Sh880, 000 was to be allocated as a monthly stipend respectively. The Head of State did not sign the Bill into law on grounds that the two leaders have remained in elective politics.
Mr. Kenyatta’s decision has ignited national debate. Some argue that the decision was unfair and malicious.
Why the sudden balking? With the public-pension crisis threatening to bankrupt National and County governments down the line, the public fear anything resembling a precedent for widespread pension reductions.
Report by Samuel wamwea Sr.
