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Githunguri Member of Parliament (MP) Gathoni Wamuchomba now says the proposal by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) to increase salaries for high cadre government officers is a mockery to Kenyans.

Taking to her Facebook page, Wamuchomba who termed SRC’s proposal as misplaced noted that the move was inconsiderate of the harsh economic times Kenyans are enduring.

“Salaries Remuneration Commission’s proposal to increase salaries for the high cadre public servants was misplaced at a time when putting a meal on the table is a challenge for the low income earners and many traders,” Wamuchomba wrote.

SRC had proposed to increase the salaries of state officers including the President, Deputy President, Cabinet Secretaries and Members of Parliament by an average of 14 per cent.

The commission sought to have the President’s salary increased from the current Ksh1,433,750 to Ksh1,650,000 and that of the deputy president from Ksh1,227,188 to Ksh1,402,500.

A circular released by the commission this week indicated that the salary increment is expected to be implemented over the next two financial years, 2023/2024 – 2024/2025,  starting from this month, July.

But instead of pushing for pay hikes among the high and mighty in government, the MP urged the commission to institute measures of cutting the salaries of top government officials including MPs to support the national budget deficit.

“I implore them to propose a salary cut for the same group (including MPs)to support our national budget deficit of 718B,” she added.

She lauded the judiciary for suspending the implementation of the Finance Act pending the hearing of a case filed against it in court.

“The Punitive Finance Act must be dissected and the oppressive articles be removed or repealed.
Remember paying tax is not a punishment but a responsibility,” she stated.