MPs Push for Sweeter Pension Deals — Kenyans Set to Pay More
Members of Parliament in Kenya are advancing changes to their pension scheme that could increase the financial burden on taxpayers.
A proposed Parliamentary Pensions Amendment Bill, sponsored by Kitui Central MP Makali Mulu and currently at the third reading stage, seeks to revise the Pensions Act with several key adjustments aimed at improving benefits for legislators.
The main proposals include:
Extending the period for re-elected MPs to repay (or "buy back") previously collected pension benefits from the current three months to 45 months, providing significantly more flexibility when returning to Parliament.
Safeguarding pensions for MPs who have completed two terms, lost an election, and later regain a seat—ensuring they do not have to repay earlier benefits upon their return.
Allowing MPs who retire due to medical reasons to access their pension or gratuity even if they are younger than 45 years old.
MP Mulu highlighted an example, noting that Kanduyi MP Wafula Wamunyinyi currently receives pension based on two terms despite having served four in total. He explained the bill's intent for medical cases: "If you are below 45 and qualify for pension and on medical grounds you can’t work anymore, this bill allows you to access your pension earlier."
The changes were discussed during a recent legislative retreat in Naivasha, where MPs reviewed their welfare and exit packages alongside other priorities. A new pension framework is expected to move forward once the House resumes.
If enacted, the amendments would likely raise the overall cost of funding parliamentary pensions, which are supported by public funds—meaning ordinary Kenyans could face higher taxpayer obligations to cover these enhanced "luxury" retirement benefits for lawmakers.
