MPs bid to overturn SRC pay scale is an act of corruption

Coming a week before parliamentarians take their oath of office, Kiambu Woman Representative-elect Gathoni wa Muchomba touched a live wire by rejecting the salary scales published by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC). Faced by one of the fastest recall petitions and public uproar, she has sensibly apologised and reversed her position. The incident and subsequent debate offers insights into our leadership, the possible character of the 12th Parliament and what citizens and leaders need to act on next.

Misreading the moment, other MP-elects have argued that without higher salaries and allowances they will be unable to recover their heavy campaigns investment, meet their constituent’s insatiable needs or maintain their “mheshimiwa” (Honourable) appearance and lifestyle. The three arguments tragically betray lack of basic salary negotiation etiquette and poor self-awareness. Anyone who has been interviewed for a job knows that salary negotiations are always uncomfortable. There are some basic errors you can make. Introducing one’s personal needs is the first no no. Your potential employers are not interested in your mortgage, student loan repayments, entertainment preferences or cars you drive and must maintain. We did not ask you to spend 40 million on your campaigns or our emerging helicopter mini-industry either. Place these arguments in the broader context and we have a right to be very worried.