MPs move to halt retirements benefits to Uhuru, Kalonzo and Raila

Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka could soon start repaying the Sh844 million they have so far received as retirement benefits after a section of lawmakers yesterday said they had initiated plans to have them refund the millions.

Six MPs allied to President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza Coalition said the leaders do not deserve the benefits as they are currently involved in politics including taking part in the ongoing Azimio La Umoja demonstrations.

While addressing a news conference yesterday, the six led by Gatundu South MP Gabriel Kagombe also announced that they will push the National Treasury to also terminate further payments to the three until they denounce their active participation in politics.

 According to the MPs, Uhuru should refund Sh78.7 million that he has so far received , Raila should refund Sh388.8 million while Kalonzo should refund Sh375.8 million that he has received since the Presidential Retirement benefits act 2003 and Retirements Benefits (Deputy President and Designated State officers) act 2015 came in to force.

Since the act came into force, the three are entitled to three drivers paid Sh70,000 each, one personal assistant entitled to Sh200,000 monthly, one accountant Sh100,000, two secretaries Sh140,000, two housekeepers Sh80,000, two senior support staff at Sh100,000, two gardeners at Sh40,000, two cooks at Sh140,000, two cleaners at Sh50,000, armed security guards who shall be provided on request at Sh200,000, diplomatic passports , office and office equipment, maintenance equipment for the vehicles provided and access to the VIP lounge 11 at all airports within Kenya.