Kenyan Members of Parliament (MPs) are once again at the center of public outrage after pushing for a salary increase from Sh725,500 to Sh739,600 per month, barely a year after similar efforts were halted by widespread protests.
The move has ignited anger among Kenyans, who are battling rising inflation, high unemployment, and a tough economy. Many citizens view this push as an act of blatant greed, with MPs prioritizing their pockets over the country’s pressing issues.
Public Fury and Fear of New Protests
The proposal comes just a year after massive public demonstrations, led by Gen Z protesters, forced MPs to abandon a previous salary hike attempt. Last June, citizens took to the streets in what became one of the biggest anti-government protests in recent years, successfully pushing the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) to freeze salary increments for lawmakers and top government officials.
Now, with MPs reigniting the salary debate, Kenyans are once again threatening protests, calling out leaders for ignoring the economic struggles of the people. Social media is already flooded with demands for fresh demonstrations should Parliament push through the increase.
SRC Under Pressure as MPs Justify Demand
MPs argue that their current salary is insufficient to meet their expenses, citing the rising cost of living and the need to maintain their status as lawmakers. However, the SRC, which regulates public sector wages, is under intense scrutiny to reject the demand, as it did last year.
As Parliament debates the controversial hike, all eyes are on MPs. Will they push forward with their demands, or will public pressure force them to back down once again?
