Clerics tell Kenyans not to pay tax if MPs raise perks

By James Ratemo

Religious leaders want Kenyans to boycott paying taxes should MPs insist on increasing their perks.

Speaking under the banner of Ufungamano Joint Forum of Religious Organisations, the clerics, led by Cardinal John Njue, said salaries for MPs should be reviewed and adjusted to reflect the economic reality and unemployment index.

"It is immoral for Parliament to determine their own salaries, benefits, pensions, golden handshakes and allowances then proceed to implement the same in the life of the sitting Parliament. An MP is not in full employment but on a five year contract and as such not entitled to a pension," said Charles Wambugu, the forum’s secretary.

Terming the move by legislators as "blind to the public’s general mood", the clergy accused the MPs of laziness when it comes to making laws that touch on the welfare of Kenyans, but too keen raise their salaries.

"Only a small number of MPs debate and pass Bills in a Parliament of 222 MPs and there are many times when the House lacks quorum. This means our MPs have a very casual attitude towards making laws. We have a bloated Cabinet already causing unsustainable strain on the Exchequer," read the joint statement in part.

Failed policies

The press statement read further: "Today the cost of living for ordinary Kenyans has risen beyond imaginable levels because the Government and Parliament have failed to create policies conducive to reasonable pricing of food, housing, clothing or policies which would promote job opportunities."