In a bid to address the increasing cost of living and maintain the purchasing power of state officers, the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) has proposed a salary hike for top government officials, including President William Ruto and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The move comes as a response to the high inflation that has been negatively impacting individuals' incomes, particularly those reliant on salaries, part-time workers, and individuals in the informal sector.
President Ruto's Salary Increase: If approved, the proposed salary increase would provide some much-needed relief for President William Ruto. Under the proposal, his monthly paycheck would see a 7.1 percent raise, starting from July 2023, bringing his earnings to a substantial Sh1,546,875. By 2024, his salary is projected to reach Sh1,650,000.
Deputy President Gachagua's Salary Increase: Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua would also benefit from the proposed salary hike. His monthly salary would surge to Sh1,367,438 from July 1, with an eventual settlement at Sh1,402,500 by July 2024. This represents an impressive 14.3 percent boost over the two-year period.
Salary Boost for Cabinet Secretaries: The proposal also includes a salary increase for Cabinet Secretaries. Their monthly earnings would rise to Sh1,056,000, starting from July 1, 2024, marking a significant jump from the current Sh924,000.
Members of Parliament and Senators: Members of Parliament, including senators, are not left out. They would experience an 8.3 percent salary increase, with MPs earning Sh741,003 and senators earning Sh769,201. This raise demonstrates a considerable improvement from the current salary of Sh710,000.
Governors and County Assembly Members: Governors would witness a salary boost from the existing Sh924,000 to Sh1,056,000 by July 2024. Additionally, members of the County Assembly would enjoy a generous 14 percent increase, with their monthly pay rising to Sh164,588 from the current Sh144,375.
Salaries for Other Government Officials: The proposed remuneration package extends to other prominent figures in the government, including principal secretaries, the Chief Justice, the Deputy Chief Justice, the Auditor-General, judges, the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Inspector-General of Police, and chairpersons of key commissions like the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission. All these positions are set to receive a salary boost.
Comprehensive Benefits and Allowances: The SRC's proposal also covers various allowances and benefits, such as car loans, mortgage benefits, pension plans, and medical and hospital insurance. These additional benefits aim to provide a holistic compensation package for state officers.
Public Input and Future Implementation: Before the proposed remuneration packages can be put into effect, the SRC is soliciting public comments on the matter. Once the feedback has been considered, a gazette notice will be issued, enacting the new salaries for state officers. It is important to note that if approved, this salary hike will contribute to an even larger wage bill for the national government and counties.
Balancing Growth and Sustainable Wage Bill: The SRC acknowledges the concerns surrounding the growing wage bill, as it diverts resources that could be utilized for development and service delivery. However, they remain optimistic that sustained revenue growth will help maintain a sustainable wage bill in the long run.
Conclusion: The proposed salary hike for President William Ruto, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Cabinet Secretaries, Members of Parliament, and other government officials aims to counter the effects of inflation and ensure their purchasing power remains intact.
