President Ruto Orders Withdrawal of Pay Rise Amid Nationwide Protests

Kenya’s President, William Ruto has instructed his ministers and lawmakers to forgo their recently approved pay rise and to “live within their means” in response to public outrage and widespread protests.

The directive was delivered by Hussein Mohammed, spokesperson for the Kenya State House, on Wednesday.

President Ruto’s directive comes amid significant criticism following reports of a pay rise for ministers and lawmakers, which were announced just as the nation was reeling from protests resulting in over 39 deaths and hundreds of injuries.

“The President has emphasised that now more than ever, the Executive and all arms of government must live within their means,” said Mohammed. 

He added that President Ruto has ordered a review of the salaries for his ministers and lawmakers.

The controversial pay rise, effective July 1, had seen cabinet members’ salaries increase from Ksh. 957,000 to Ksh. 990,000 plus allowances, while the 51 principal secretaries’ salaries rose from Ksh. 792,519 to Ksh. 819,844. 

Additionally, the salaries of the speakers of the National Assembly and Senate were increased from Ksh. 1,185,327 to Ksh. 1,208,362, and members of parliament saw their pay rise from Ksh. 725,502 to Ksh. 739,600.

Despite the deliberations on the salary increments taking place months ago, their implementation coincided with nationwide protests against a recent tax hike. 

This timing has intensified public backlash and amplified calls for economic prudence within the government.

In light of the mounting protests and the deadly consequences they have engendered, President Ruto has suspended the pay rise for his ministers and lawmakers, signaling a response to the public’s demands for fiscal responsibility and greater sensitivity to the nation’s economic challenges.