National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has warned Members of Parliament (MPs) that more than half of them are unlikely to return to Parliament after the 2027 General Election.
He said this while addressing lawmakers during the 2026 National Assembly Legislative Retreat.
According to Wetangula, an actuarial report on pensions shows that about 56 per cent of current MPs may not be re-elected in the next election.
He explained that political life is unpredictable and many leaders leave Parliament without proper financial preparation.
The Speaker said that once MPs lose their seats, their income reduces sharply, making life after public service difficult. He urged lawmakers to take pension planning seriously to protect their future once they leave office.
Wetangula reminded MPs that contributing to the parliamentary pension scheme is mandatory. He stressed that public service should be dignified both while serving and after leaving office.
He added that preparing for retirement should not be ignored simply because one is still in power.
“We know political loss is unavoidable for many leaders. When you exit Parliament, your earnings go down. We must make sure there is good life after Parliament,” Wetangula said.
He also supported a proposed pension amendment bill sponsored by Kitui Central MP Makali Mulu. According to Wetangula, the bill is meant to strengthen the pension system for lawmakers.
He said the proposal has gone through wide consultations involving the pensions committee, actuarial experts, parliamentary management, and the National Treasury.
The Speaker noted that the bill has been carefully reviewed and improved, saying it offers a long-term solution for MPs’ retirement needs.
He expressed confidence that the bill will help ensure financial stability for legislators once they leave Parliament.
During the retreat, Wetangula also reminded MPs of their constitutional duty in budget oversight. He said Parliament has the “power of the purse” and should take budget discussions seriously.
He urged lawmakers to carefully examine budget estimates and figures to make sure public funds are used according to national priorities.
In conclusion, Wetangula’s message to MPs was clear: many will not return to Parliament after 2027, so they must plan ahead.
By strengthening pension systems and focusing on their oversight role, MPs can protect their future and better serve the country while still in office.
Post a Comment