President Ruto Orders Withdrawal of Salary Increment Amid Public Outcry

In a move to address the growing public outrage and nationwide protests, President William Ruto has directed his ministers and lawmakers to forfeit their recent salary increment. The decision comes after reports emerged on Tuesday that the politicians had received a pay rise effective July 1, despite the ongoing protests against a tax hike that have claimed over 39 lives and left hundreds injured.

Public Uproar and Nationwide Protests

The pay rise, which was implemented amid widespread protests, sparked widespread criticism and outrage. The public perceived the move as insensitive and out of touch with the current economic realities. In response to the growing pressure, President Ruto instructed his ministers and lawmakers to “live within their means” and ordered the withdrawal of their recent pay rise.

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Review of Salaries

According to State House spokesperson Hussein Mohammed, President Ruto has emphasized the need for the Executive and all arms of government to live within their means. The President has instructed a review of salaries for his ministers and lawmakers, which will be conducted in the coming days.

Previous Salary Increments

Before the withdrawal of the pay rise, cabinet secretaries were set to earn Ksh 990,000 plus allowances, up from Ksh 957,000. Principal secretaries were to earn Ksh 819,844, up from Ksh 792,519. Speakers of the National Assembly and Senate were to earn Ksh 1,208,362, up from Ksh 1,185,327, while members of parliament were to earn Ksh 739,600, up from Ksh 725,502.

Suspension of Pay Rise

President Ruto’s decision to suspend the pay rise for his ministers and lawmakers is seen as a move to address the public’s concerns and criticisms. The suspension comes after deliberations on salary increments occurred months ago, but their implementation coincided with the deadly protests against a tax hike.