Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has tabled a motion seeking the withdrawal or reduction of retirement benefits allocated to former President Uhuru Kenyatta, citing alleged involvement in active politics.
In the motion, Cherargei argues that Kenyatta has contravened provisions of the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act, which requires retired presidents to maintain a neutral and advisory role in national affairs. He claims that Kenyatta’s recent public engagements and statements suggest participation in partisan political activities.
According to the senator, such actions undermine the intent of granting state-funded benefits to former heads of state. He maintains that continued political involvement, if established, raises questions about the justification for maintaining the current level of public support accorded to the retired president.
Cherargei further proposes that an audit be conducted by the Office of the Auditor-General to review all benefits and resources allocated to Kenyatta. The findings, he says, should be submitted to Parliament within 60 days to guide any decision on whether to revoke, vary, or reallocate the benefits.
“This House recommends the revocation, variation, or reallocation of budgetary provisions relating to the benefits of the retired President, in line with the findings of the audit,” the motion states.
The senator also suggested that any funds recovered from the benefits could be redirected toward public welfare programmes.
The move comes amid ongoing political exchanges involving the former president, who has recently defended his right to express political views. Kenyatta has stated that although he does not hold elective office, he remains a member of a political party and retains the freedom to participate in its activities.
His remarks have drawn mixed reactions from leaders across the political divide, with some supporting calls for accountability while others argue that retired leaders retain constitutional rights, including freedom of expression and association.
