MPs Salary in Kenya,Allowances, and Roles In 2023

Members of Parliament (MPs) play a significant role in shaping a country's legislative landscape. In Kenya, the topic of MPs' salaries, monthly allowances, and functions is a contentious issue that often draws public attention. This article delves into the intricacies of MPs' compensation, shedding light on their earnings, benefits, and responsibilities as public servants. We'll explore the structure of MPs' salaries, their various allowances, and their critical roles within the legislative system.

Key Takeaways

1. MPs' salaries and allowances in Kenya are determined by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), an autonomous body responsible for setting and reviewing remuneration for public servants.
2. The current basic salary for an MP in Kenya is Ksh.710,000 monthly. This amount has gradually increased over the years due to adjustments by the SRC.
3. In addition to the basic salary, MPs receive various allowances, including house allowance, market adjustment, and commuter allowance, contributing to their total monthly earnings.
4. MPs also benefit from a sitting allowance, car maintenance allowance, mileage claim, and airtime allowance. They are entitled to a car grant and a mortgage benefit.
5. Personal assistants of MPs also earn decent salaries, with roles such as accounts assistants, ward coordinators, field officers, and procurement assistants contributing to the overall wage bill.
6. Nominated MPs have the same basic salary as elected MPs, but their allowances might differ based on the committees they serve on.

MPs Salary and Allowances

The Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) can determine MPs' salaries and allowances in Kenya. The current basic salary for an MP is Ksh.710,000 per month. This figure has experienced gradual increases over the years to accommodate market positioning and constitutional principles.

In addition to the basic salary, MPs receive house allowances, market adjustments, and a commuter allowance. They also benefit from sitting allowances, car maintenance allowances, and mileage claims. A significant car grant of Ksh.5 million and a mortgage benefit of Ksh.20 million contribute to their comprehensive package.

Earnings of Personal Assistants

Personal assistants of MPs, who oversee various constituency projects, earn between Ksh.69,000 and Ksh.163,000 monthly. Their roles encompass accounts management, ward coordination, fieldwork, and procurement assistance. The average pay for MP assistants is approximately Ksh.85,000.

Roles and Responsibilities

The National Assembly is the elected legislative body in Kenya, consisting of the National Assembly and the Senate. MPs play crucial roles in representing their constituencies, resolving issues of public concern, and enacting national legislation. They also determine the allocation of national revenue between government levels, appropriate funds for the federal government's expenditure, and oversee revenue and expenditure matters.

MPs review the conduct of state officers, initiate the process of removing them from office, and have the power to amend or veto specific bills. They also exercise oversight over state organs, declare war, and extend states of emergency. This broad range of functions allows MPs to influence policy-making and the country's direction.

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Conclusion

The debate over MPs' salaries, allowances, and functions in Kenya resonates with citizens and public officials alike. The intricate interplay between remuneration and MPs' roles underscores the importance of striking a balance that serves both public servants and the general population. As the nation's legislators, MPs play a significant role in shaping policy and governance, making it essential to comprehensively understand their compensation and responsibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What determines MPs' salaries and allowances in Kenya?

 The Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) is responsible for setting and reviewing MPs' salaries and allowances in Kenya.

What is the current basic salary for an MP in Kenya? 

The current basic salary for an MP is Ksh.710,000 per month.

What allowances do MPs receive in addition to their basic salary?

MPs receive various allowances, including house allowance, market adjustment, commuter allowance, sitting allowance, car maintenance allowance, mileage claim, and airtime allowance.

Do nominated MPs have the same basic salary as elected MPs?

 Yes, nominated MPs have the same basic salary as elected MPs, but their allowances might differ based on the committees they serve on.

What are the critical roles of MPs in Kenya?

MPs have roles such as representing their constituencies, enacting national legislation, overseeing government expenditure, and conducting oversight of state organs.

What is the role of the National Assembly in Kenya?

 The National Assembly is responsible for representing constituents, enacting legislation, determining revenue allocation, overseeing government expenditures, reviewing state officer conduct, and more.

What is the Constituency Development Fund (CDF)? 

The CDF was introduced to allocate government revenue for community development projects. It changed in 2013 but was declared illegal and unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in 2022.

How has MPs' salary evolved over the years in Kenya?

 MPs' salaries have steadily increased over the years, with adjustments made to ensure fair compensation based on market positioning and constitutional principles.

What was the outcome of the court case regarding the Constituency Development Fund (CDF)? 

In 2022, the Supreme Court declared the CDF illegal and unconstitutional due to conflicts with revenue and public finance laws.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on available sources and is meant for informational purposes only. Readers should consult official government sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.