The Committee on Public Service and Local Government in Parliament has recommended the suspension of requests to purchase cars for former leaders. Committee chairperson Ojara Mapenduzi disclosed this during the presentation of the committee’s report on the budget framework paper for the upcoming financial year.
The Ministry of Public Service had sought sh7.2 billion in the next financial year for the acquisition of cars for former leaders, including the President and vice-presidents, as part of their emoluments.
Mapenduzi highlighted that both the Emoluments of the President, Vice-president, and Prime Minister Act, 2010, and the Parliamentary Pension Act outline various retirement benefits for leaders. He expressed concern over the trend where some former leaders benefit from both sets of laws and called for a halt in the car purchase request until the laws are harmonized.
Harmonization of Laws
The committee’s recommendation reflects the need to align existing laws to avoid potential overlaps in retirement benefits for leaders. Harmonizing the Emoluments Act and the Parliamentary Pension Act is deemed essential to ensure clarity and consistency in providing post-retirement benefits for leaders.
LC1 Election Funding
During the committee’s discussions, certain members, including Karim Masaba from Mbale Industrial Division and Moses Aleper from Chekwii County, emphasized the inclusion of funds in the budget for organizing Local Council (LC1) elections and ensuring gratuity for elected officials.
