Africa-Press – Kenya. President William Ruto has cautioned MCAs against embracing the popular “one term” political slogan, warning that such rhetoric could undermine their own push for retirement benefits.
The President told MCAs that publicly campaigning on a one-term narrative sends the wrong signal to Kenyans and could weaken support for their proposed pension scheme.
Ruto spoke during the annual County Assemblies Forum.
The President underscored the need to restore dignity in public service during and after tenure, saying many leaders leave office and struggle financially.
“Sometimes I see some MCAs saying the one-term slogan. If you embrace the one-term slogan, you will not get pension. I have observed that Kenyans are very keen; if they hear you claiming one term, they will start with you who is claiming one term before we get to the rest,” the President said.
“Public service must carry dignity, both in tenure and after service. When many leaders get out of the office, they live badly. Therefore, the issue of pensions is something that I have every intention to address.”
Ruto revealed that discussions with parliamentary leadership on pending pension matters were at an advanced stage, expressing confidence that the outstanding issues would soon be resolved.
He, however, insisted that the proposed County Assemblies pension scheme be contributory.
Under the plan, MCAs would contribute 7.5 per cent of their salary, with the government matching the amount.
“The same way Members of Parliament contribute 7.5 per cent of their salary, you will contribute 7.5 per cent of your salary. The employer in government will also contribute 7.5 per cent as well. That way, we will have a pension that will support you,” Ruto said.
If implemented, the President said MCAs could qualify as pensioners after serving two terms, potentially within the next few months once the legal framework is concluded.
At the same forum, Ruto described MCAs as indispensable partners in the country’s development agenda and a critical link between citizens’ aspirations and national policy.
He rallied the ward representatives to support the proposed National Infrastructure Fund, which he said would mobilise sustainable financing for transformative projects, including roads, airports, dams, irrigation and electricity connectivity.
The President also assured MCAs of the government’s backing for the Salaries and Remuneration Commission recommendation to reclassify their job groups from D4 to E2, saying the move recognises the weight of their responsibilities in strengthening devolution.
He reaffirmed support for the County Assemblies Pension Scheme Bill and the Ward Development Fund, both currently before the National Assembly, expressing optimism that the measures would enhance the welfare and effectiveness of ward representatives.
Ruto urged MCAs to align their political messaging with their long-term interests, emphasising that sustainable retirement benefits depend on responsible public conduct and a contributory pension culture.
