MPs’ gratuity builds indelible national legacy

In the absence of the opposition legislators who once again walked out of the debate chamber in protest of the ruling by the Deputy Speaker to banish some of them from attending Bunge sessions, MPs from the ruling party collectively raised voice demanding immediate drop of the idea.

Among other arguments raised by the MPs to defend their case included the alleged contributions made to their respective constituencies in support of community development projects and education for children from underprivileged families.

The line of reasoning over the matter might be valid as it sounds but the zeal with which the defence was unilaterally presented invites more questions than answers.
Could it be that the legislators were overstretched or the government wanted to remind them of their noble obligation to live by example and be prepared to give?

First of all, the term income tax is directly linked to revenue collection for the welfare of the nation. By nature, human beings always think of gains and all sorts of benefits. Perhaps some consider tax payment as a punishment. We believe that is not the case.

It all started when the Finance and Planning minister presented to the National Assembly the national budget for the year 2016/2017 demonstrating various sources of revenue. It was suggested that the gratuity given to legislators would also undergo a five per cent taxation. However, the proposal drew attention of a larger section of the lawmakers present at the debate chamber at that moment.

There is no doubt the government carried out a little research before bringing up the proposal that appeared hostile to the law makers. Some calculations obviously indicated that a handsome portion of revenue would be collected and would add up to the government coffers for the public well being.

Here we become a witness to a clear dividing line and vision.

While some legislators from the opposition have proposed for abolishment of daily Sh200,000 sitting allowances, others from the ruling party are battling the five-per cent gratuity taxation request.

The least we may wish is to initiate another debate over justification of the allowances entitled to MPs for doing their job, but we believe it is high time for our leaders at various walks to adopt culture that would render them to sacrifice for their nation.

Besides, the proposed tax for the gratuity is insignificant compared to remunerations gained in the course of parliamentary activities ranging from steering committee meetings and ordinary sessions.

For example allowances given within 40 days irrespective of one’s contribution in the House session amounted to Sh8m away from monthly salaries. Remember that other equally important civil servants have no access to such payments apart from the monthly earnings.

The president has set patriotic premises to volunteer for the nation by slashing down his salary. We expect the lawmakers, politicians and the entire citizenry to emulate the strength of mind in giving for the welfare of the nation.