MPs seek Sh1bn to overhaul chamber, complete projects

The Parliamentary Service Commission has approached the National Assembly to adjust MPs’ budget upwards from the Sh43.6 billion set in the 2024 Budget Policy Statement to Sh65 billion.

 Already, Parliament has been allocated Sh43.6 billion in next year’s budget, which the commission says is not enough.

“The 2024-25 Parliamentary Service estimates have been casted on the assumption that the BPS approved ceiling of Sh43.6 billion will be adjusted upwards to accommodate the financing gap of Sh22 billion,” the PSC said.

“It is observed that the legislative sector has made significant progress towards realising national goals and objectives.”

In justifying the quest, PSC said, “Adequate resources for the legislative sector will enhance service delivery and effectiveness in oversight and representation function of the Legislature.”

 The Speaker Moses Wetang’ula-led commission has cited a demand by Kenya Revenue Authority of Sh1.5 billion on taxes charged on motor vehicle reimbursement to MPs as among drivers of the high budget.

 PSC wants Sh1 billion for completion of the Bunge Tower and payment of the final certificate to the contractor – China Jianxi International Company.

The block recently opened by President William Ruto has been dogged by controversy including delayed construction and variations of costs. It is undergoing finishing touches.

The commission further says it requires Sh900 million to overhaul the chamber system in the Senate and National Assembly.

 The chambers were refurbished in 2013 at about Sh920 million in changes which included removal of the rectangular block seating arrangements.

 It was at this stage that TV broadcast facilities, CCTV, electronic voting system and lighting systems were installed and the interior upgraded.

Apart from the Sh900 million for the overhaul, the House’ top managers say they need another Sh800 million for procurement and placement of the Hansard system.

 This would be over and above some Sh700 million they want set aside for live broadcasting of chamber and committee proceedings.

MPs also want the extra amounts in order to raise Sh2 billion for the Senate Oversight Fund.

“These are the key drivers that have led to the tabling of estimates above the approved BPS ceiling,” the commission says in the brief to MPs.

Estimates tabled in Parliament further reveal that the PSC wants the additional amount to raise Sh200 million to facilitate the National Dialogue Committee.

 The committee, which was formed by President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga to negotiate a post-poll deal, concluded its work and issued a report to Parliament, which is already being implemented.

 PSC has further cited a requirement for Sh2.5 billion to go towards capitation for mortgages for staff and MPs.

The commission wants MPs to also approve Sh50 million for the replacement of lifts at the Continental Building and Sh165 million to upgrade the new kitchen wing.

 PSC says the additional amounts would also cater to its need for Sh1.5 billion for the completion of the Centre for Parliamentary Studies.