Kenyan MPs' pay rise suspended following public outrage.

 

President William Ruto has halted proposed pay increases for Kenya's cabinet and parliament members following widespread public backlash. This decision comes after recent protests forced the withdrawal of a contentious finance bill that included tax hikes. Lyn Mengich, Chairperson of the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), announced on Wednesday that the commission would "freeze" salary raises for state officers due to economic challenges. 

Initially, the SRC had recommended increases of 2% to 5% for all state officials, including judges. 

The reversal followed consultations with the National Treasury. Moses Kuria, Minister of Public Service, declared he would not implement the increases for the cabinet. President Ruto had previously abandoned tax increase plans amid concerns from protesters struggling with high living costs. Critics questioned the raise amid calls for government spending cuts. Parliamentarians, including ruling coalition senator Aaron Cheruiyot, opposed the raise, as did opposition MP Adan Keynan. 

Senator Edwin Sifuna argued against higher salaries amid taxpayer burden concerns. Clerk of the National Assembly Samuel Njoroge asserted the SRC's recommendations must be honored, though President Ruto requested Treasury review. Recent youth-led protests, Kenya's largest since 2022, have expanded to demand Ruto's resignation and justice for protesters killed by security forces. State estimates claim 39 deaths in recent protests. Anarchic elements emerged in Tuesday's protests, with reports of looting prompting police to seek 38 suspects. 

Organizers have suggested infiltrations by hired "goons" and are reconsidering protest strategies, possibly suspending protests.