This archive report was first published on 12 May 2020.
On May 11, 2020, the Jubilee coalition Senate Parliamentary Group Meeting replaced ousted Jubilee Senate leaders, Senator Kipchumba Murkomen and Senator Susan Kihika, in a move that will see them lose their hefty perks and privileges.
As Elgeyo Marakwet and Nakuru Senators, respectively, they had been entitled to higher pay packages compared to their colleagues, enhanced security, and vehicles paid for by the government.
According to National Assembly Minority Leader John Mbadi, the Majority and Minority leaders earn slightly over Sh200,000 and responsibility allowance of about Sh138,000 monthly, which Mr Murkomen will no longer be entitled to.
“It is about Sh400,000 above other members. Those office holders also have staff hired for them, including a researcher, policy analyst, and legal officer. These are senior staff picked by the office holder. There is also a secretary, personal assistant, and an office assistant,” Mr Mbadi said.
Mr Mbadi also noted that the office holders are entitled to extra security officers — a maximum of five security officers and an office. “So the moment you lose your seat, those staff are rendered jobless and the vehicles surrendered,” said Mr Mbadi.
Former Deputy Minority Leader Jakoyo Midiwo said the offices are usually adored for the extra perks. “Yes, the officers put you slightly above your colleagues and come with a lot of privileges that Murkomen and Kihika will now lose,” Mr Midiwo said.
