Committee uncovers neglect, poor management in MPs’ constituency offices
The committee toured offices in Siaya, Kisumu, Narok, and Bomet counties, documenting numerous challenges faced by office staff and their employers.
A parliamentary committee has uncovered deep-seated neglect and poor management in MPs’ constituency offices, with staff struggling under delayed salaries, outdated rent allocations, and insufficient support from the Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC).
The findings show that years of underfunding and limited oversight have eroded service delivery to the public.
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In a detailed report, the National Assembly Committee on Members’ Services and Facilities observed that many constituency offices can no longer operate effectively due to financial constraints and poor working conditions.
The committee toured offices in Siaya, Kisumu, Narok, and Bomet counties, documenting numerous challenges faced by office staff and their employers.
According to the report, workers have gone for years without any salary review despite the growing cost of living.
Staff in Narok South, for example, told the committee they have not received a pay rise since September 2022, adding that their current wages no longer match their workload or daily expenses.
“There has been no salary increment since September 2022. The officers requested a review of their remuneration to better reflect their workload and the prevailing cost of living,” the report stated.
The inquiry revealed that most constituency offices are operating from premises that are either substandard or too expensive for their allocated budgets.
Rent ceilings set by the PSC were last reviewed in 2015, a decade ago, leaving many offices unable to afford suitable spaces.
“High rental costs posed a significant challenge. Office space in Kisumu town costs approximately Sh90,000 per month... yet the PSC allocates only Sh44,100 for rent,” read a submission from the Kisumu Woman Representative’s office.
The report also highlighted serious concerns about medical coverage for office staff. Although they contribute monthly to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), the committee found that the scheme’s benefits are far below expectations.
One staff member from Bomet East recounted how, after an accident that resulted in a Sh70,000 hospital bill, SHIF only covered Sh32,000 despite his annual contribution of Sh66,000.
“...the SHIF medical cover, facilities and services provided to constituency office staff were not commensurate with their contributions, compelling staff to seek alternative medical care,” the committee noted.
The committee further established that disbursement of operational funds happens only once every quarter, causing serious disruptions to the offices’ workflow.
Many have been forced to delay payments to suppliers and landlords, creating a cycle of debt and uncertainty. The committee proposed that funds be released monthly to enable smooth operations and the timely settlement of bills.
The report also found that most office staff lack professional development opportunities. Apart from a few senior employees, such as office managers and personal assistants, the rest rarely receive formal training.
“The committee also observed that staff at constituency offices lacked adequate training to enhance their skills and competencies,” the report added.
Beyond funding and training, the committee found several constituency offices in poor physical condition, some located in residential buildings, isolated areas, or places without proper accessibility for people with disabilities. Basic furniture and equipment were also missing in some cases, despite budget provisions.
To reverse the situation, the committee has urged the PSC to immediately increase staff salaries and revise rent allocations to match prevailing market rates. It also recommended that the Centre for Parliamentary Studies and Training develop and roll out a regular capacity-building program to enhance staff efficiency and service delivery.
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