By Francis Kioko
Date 4th July 2024.
Mwingi West Member of Parliament Charles Nguna has publicly criticized the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) for its recent decision to increase the salaries of Members of the National Assembly and President Ruto’s cabinet. Nguna described the move as ill-advised, emphasizing the pressing economic challenges facing Kenya.
Nguna announced that he would formally request the Clerk of the National Assembly to exclude his payslip from the proposed salary increment. “At this crucial time, what’s important is addressing the multitude of issues plaguing poor Kenyans,” Nguna stated. “Our citizens have shown immense dissatisfaction with the government’s failure to prioritize solutions for inflation, high unemployment, and deteriorating infrastructure.”
The MP’s stance has garnered widespread applause from Kenyans, who are urging other MPs and Cabinet Secretaries to follow his example. For the past two weeks, the country has witnessed a wave of demonstrations led by the Gen-Z movement. Protesters have taken to the streets to decry the punitive taxes introduced in the recently passed finance bill which was later halted and demand President Ruto’s resignation. The demonstrators argue that the government is neglecting the populace’s hardships while focusing on enriching a select few.
The outcry from the public reflects deep-seated frustrations with the current administration. Many Kenyans feel that President Ruto’s government is more interested in self-enrichment and catering to close confidants who flaunt their wealth in church harambees and other public events, further provoking an already suffering populace.
Nguna’s action stands out as a rare instance of solidarity with the ordinary Kenyan, and his refusal to accept a pay raise is seen as a significant gesture of empathy and responsibility. His call to address core economic issues resonates strongly with the general public, who are eager for tangible solutions to their everyday struggles.
As the protests continue to unfold, the pressure mounts on the government to respond to the growing discontent. Whether Nguna’s example will inspire broader action among Kenya’s political leaders remains to be seen, but his stand has undoubtedly struck a chord with the nation’s citizens.
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