Let pensioners enjoy their sunset years in peace

How a country treats its retired generals is a powerful indicator of its moral compass and the direction it is headed.

It’s not just about showing appreciation for building the nation; it’s about respecting those who have dedicated their lives to it.

For Kenya, a country with a history of corruption scandals, the challenges faced by retirees often go unnoticed because bigger scandals involving billions of shillings take the spotlight. But the truth is, the suffering of retirees especially those who served as generals is a scandal in itself.

Pensioners’s benefits are often delayed, and according to the Auditor-General’s office, inefficiencies at the National Treasury’s pension department are to blame. For example, a process that should take only 21 days sometimes drags on for years, which is unacceptable for people who have given so much to the country and deserve to spend their sunset years in peace.

Retirement is supposed to be a time to rest and enjoy life, but for many in Kenya, this is far from reality. Retirees, whether they served in the government or worked in the private sector, often struggle just to survive.

Instead of enjoying their golden years, they find themselves chasing down the benefits they worked hard for. The elderly are particularly vulnerable because they no longer have the strength or energy to earn a living, and they often face health issues that require medical attention.

A survey by the Retirement Benefits Authority revealed that only 55 percent of retirees had easy access to their pensions. Of those who faced problems, 15 percent experienced delays in receiving their benefits, while another 12 percent reported being underpaid.

These figures signal a serious problem—one that goes beyond simple inefficiencies. It suggests a system that fails to honour those who have given their lives to serve the country, whether in the military or other sectors.

Delays in pension payments, inadequate healthcare, and lack of support are not just administrative problems; they are a sign of disrespect. If Kenya cannot take care of its veterans, what does that say about its moral compass?

The introduction of the Pensions (Amendment) Bill, which aims to adjust pensions based on the cost of living, is a step in the right direction, as it shows an acknowledgment that retirees need better support to live dignified lives.

For many, this could be the difference between living comfortably or struggling. However, passing laws is not enough; the real test is whether the government can actually implement these changes effectively. Without proper commitment and action, the bill could end up being just another promise that is never fulfilled.

It’s easy for the public to focus on the large corruption scandals that involve billions of shillings, but the neglect of retirees is just as significant. It may not involve the same amount of money, but it highlights a lack of empathy and responsibility within society. If Kenya cannot take care of those who helped build its economy and ensure its safety, then it raises questions about what the country truly values.

When the government and society neglect pensioners and misuse the funds meant for their benefits, it doesn’t just cause immediate suffering. It also sends a harmful message to younger generations. If they see that retirees are not being taken care of, they may lose faith in the system. Why save for retirement if you won’t receive what you’re owed when the time comes? This attitude can lead to short-term thinking and instability, as people choose immediate gains over planning for the future.

To avoid these, Kenyans must take action now. Those responsible for mismanaging or stealing funds meant for pensioners should be held accountable. By doing this, the government would send a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated.

In the treatment of vulnerable pensioners, the nation reveals its ability to build a fair and just society. Kenya has an opportunity to rise to this challenge and prove that it can move beyond scandals by taking care of its retirees and creating a society that respects its retired generals.

— The writer is People Daily’s Business Editor