Faith Masita
NAIROBI - In a striking critique of political incentives at the centre of government, Mukurweini Member of Parliament John Kaguchia has alleged that lawmakers attending Parliamentary Group (PG) meetings at State House are receiving KSh 100,000 per session a practice he says undermines accountability and distorts democratic priorities.
Speaking on Citizen TV on Monday, the legislator said what should be intra-party discussions have increasingly become episodes of personal gain.
“Political leadership has been captured by the Executive, and most of them are now looking at how much money they are getting as individuals,” Kaguchia told his interviewer.
“Every meeting you attend in State House, you are paid. When you go for a PG you get KSh 100,000.”
The lawmaker, known for his vocal posture since parting ways with his former political allies, said he initially declined the payment but eventually stopped attending such meetings altogether. “The first time I didn’t take the money but sooner than later I stopped going there,” he stated.
A Broader Concern Ahead of 2027
Kaguchia’s comments come as political actors prepare for the 2027 general election, and he framed the alleged practice as a symptom of a deeper issue what he calls the prioritization of political alliances over service delivery.
“They’re interested in forging alliances ahead of the 2027 elections at the expense of neglecting citizens in dire need of a working service delivery system,” he argued, suggesting that the culture of incentives distracts from governance.
Kaguchia extended his criticism to what he described as flawed responses to developmental promises in his constituency. “Instead of doing the dam, he is bringing food on trucks for the people of Mukurweini,” he said, referring to unfulfilled pledges and substitutive food distributions. “I am now supporting the cry of the people of Kenya that they want good governance rather than… money taken to the State House.”
What This Means for Parliament and Public Trust
While parliamentary group meetings especially those involving the ruling party and coalition partners are not new, Kaguchia’s statements raise fresh scrutiny over how such gatherings are perceived and whether they add value to legislative work or merely serve as venues for financial remuneration.
Critics argue that if confirmed, such practices could reinforce public perceptions of political leaders prioritizing personal enrichment over constitutional duties, especially when essential public services face funding constraints.
