Committee exposes neglect, delayed pay and poor working conditions in MPs’ constituency offices

A new parliamentary report has uncovered deep-rooted neglect, delayed salaries, and poor working conditions in Members of Parliament’s constituency offices across the country.

The National Assembly Committee on Members’ Services and Facilities found that most offices are struggling due to underfunding, outdated rent allocations, and limited oversight from the Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC).

During an inspection tour in Siaya, Kisumu, Narok, and Bomet counties, the committee observed that many offices are barely functional, with staff demoralised by stagnant salaries and inadequate support. In some constituencies, workers have not received pay reviews since 2022, leaving them unable to cope with the rising cost of living.

The report also revealed that most constituency offices are housed in substandard or overpriced buildings. Rent ceilings, last reviewed in 2015, no longer reflect current market rates — forcing offices to operate in cramped or unsafe spaces. For instance, in some towns, rent costs are double the official allocation, straining already limited budgets.

Healthcare coverage remains another major concern. Despite consistent contributions to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), employees reportedly receive minimal benefits, often paying large portions of medical bills out of pocket. Many staff members described the SHIF cover as insufficient and unhelpful during emergencies.

The committee further noted that operational funds are only disbursed quarterly, causing delays in payments to suppliers and landlords. This has led to the accumulation of debts and frequent disputes between offices and service providers.

Additionally, opportunities for training and professional development are limited, with only senior staff occasionally benefiting. Junior employees, who handle most administrative tasks, are often left out of capacity-building initiatives.

The report paints a picture of deteriorating working environments, with several offices lacking basic furniture, equipment, or accessibility for persons with disabilities. Some offices are even located in residential buildings, raising security and operational concerns.

The committee has recommended an immediate review of staff salaries, an update of rent limits to match current market conditions, and the introduction of regular monthly fund disbursements. It also called for a structured training and capacity-building programme through the Centre for Parliamentary Studies and Training to equip all staff with essential skills.

The report concludes that the Parliamentary Service Commission must act urgently to restore proper management, improve staff welfare, and strengthen service delivery in MPs’ constituency offices nationwide.