National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula addressing mourners during the burial service for former Bunyala Central Ward Ford Kenya MCA Fred Musirimba at Namalo Primary School in Budalang’i Constituency, Busia County on Friday/IMAGE /HILTON OTENYOThe government should establish a pension scheme for MCAs to give them protection once they retire or leave office.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula on Friday said the ward representatives deserve the protection after service to the nation.
Wetang’ula said he has held discussions with the the leadership of the County Assemblies Forum and facilitated legal and research support to improve the proposed law.
“If the bill is passed into law, it will support leaders after they retire from politics,” he said.
The proposed law seeks to establish a contributory pension scheme for MCAs.
Wetang'ula spoke during the burial of former Bunyala Central MCA Fred Musirimba at Namalo primary school grounds in Budalang’i constituency, Busia county.
Musirimba was a Ford Kenya ward representative.
Former MCAs who attended the burial appealed to Wetang'ula to fast-track the proposed law so they can benefit from allowances.
Wetang’ula said the current law only allows for ex gratia (out of grace) payments because former MCAs did not contribute to any pension scheme during their term in office.
Acknowledging the financial difficulties facing many former MCAs, Wetang’ula said the proposed legislation would cushion them and ensure they live a honourable life after leaving public office.
“MCAs play a very critical role in the running and stability of devolved governments, and they deserve a pension after retirement. I hope MPs will pass the bill once it is tabled in the House,” he said.
Wetang’ula hailed ODM leaders for supporting the broad-based government arrangement, saying the co-operation has strengthened national unity, political stability and inclusive governance.
He singled out ODM leader Oburu Oginga for promoting unity across political parties for the benefit of Kenyans.
Politicians reiterated calls for President Ruto to pick a running mate from the Luhya community.
Webuye East MP Martin Pepela said leaders from the region had agreed to push for one of their own to become the deputy president.
“Our MPs have agreed that the deputy president’s slot should go to one of our own. We deserve the position because we have the numbers and qualified leaders,” Pepela said.
His Budalang’i counterpart Raphael Wanjala said the community was ready for the position, adding that Western Kenya’s long-term political ambition is to produce a president after Ruto’s second term.
Wetang’ula, Wanjala and Pepela urged the Luhya community to unite and strengthen its political influence ahead of the 2027 elections.
They said the region had the numbers needed to support President William Ruto’s re-election bid. Wanjala, however, warned leaders against divisions that could weaken the region’s bargaining power.
