Korogocho Member of County Assembly (MCA) Absalom Odhiambo, popularly known as “Matach,” has urged the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) to review the salaries of MCAs nationwide, citing significant financial pressure from their constituents.
In a recent address, the outspoken legislator lamented that MCAs are facing “a lot of financial constraints” as they are the first point of contact for residents seeking assistance with daily challenges. He explained that MCAs are frequently called upon to pay for school fees, hospital bills, and rent, putting a heavy burden on their personal finances.
Odhiambo suggested that a special kitty should be created to help fund the work of MCAs, which he believes would improve their ability to serve citizens and strengthen their relationship with the public.
He also linked the recent resignation announcement by Githurai 44 MCA Waithira to the frustrations and depression that many county legislators are experiencing. “The MCA has to sort school fees, has to sort hospital bills, has to pay rent because they are on the ground daily,” Matach stated.
According to Odhiambo, the drafters of the 2010 Constitution did not fully account for the extensive work MCAs are expected to perform as the primary oversight body for county governments.
The MCA also directed criticism at Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, accusing him of disregarding the concerns of city residents despite claims of improved revenue collection. “We are just being told that revenue has improved, but where is the money? Can they tell us where this money goes?” he questioned.
He further decried the lack of explanation from the county executive regarding the use of funds allocated for development projects.
In a direct appeal, Matach called on President William Ruto to convene a meeting with all Nairobi MCAs to address the issues facing the capital.
“We are calling on President William Ruto to immediately call for a meeting so we can tell him our problems because no one is listening,” he said.
This appeal follows the recent suspension of a planned impeachment motion against Governor Sakaja. The motion, which had garnered the support of over 90 MCAs, was halted after interventions by both President Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga. The governor was reportedly given a 60-day period to resolve the issues raised by the legislators or risk facing another attempt at impeachment.
