Over 400 councillors from Nakuru who served under the past government before the introduction of devolution system in the country are now calling on the county and national governments to grant them honorarium payment to enable them improve their living standards due to the rising cost of living.
Speaking to the media on Thursday in Nakuru, the former councillor’s secretary Geoffrey Mutai argued that they diligently served citizens during their tenure, and thus deserve proper treatment from the current authority.
‘It is sad that despite our efforts to serve the public back then, the current government has neglected us. This is why we need at least a monthly payment of Sh30,000 to each member who served at least one term to recognise our efforts," Mutai stated.
They are also demanding a payment of Sh1.5 million each as honorarium.
The former councillors also want legislators in the country to lend support to the initiative backed by the Senate last week which would enable them enjoy what they feel is rightfully due to them.
"Apart from these payments, we also to be involved in key decision making processes especially in the county government development programmes because we deeply understand the problems facing people at grassroots level.’ Mutai further added.
Among other things the councillors want include the unconditional exemption from parking fees and payment of land rates within their respective local authorities where they served.