Kitui MCA Hon. Mark Ndingo Calls for Radical Government Cost-Cutting Measures

Kitui County Assembly Member, Hon. Mark Ndingo, has proposed a sweeping series of austerity measures aimed at reducing government expenditure and promoting economic stability in Kenya. Speaking at a public event in Kwa Vonza, Ndingo emphasized the need for the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) to take bold steps in curbing the high cost of governance.

Ndingo’s proposal includes a 50% reduction in salaries for all state officers, starting from the President down to the Members of County Assemblies (MCAs). He argued that the country’s economic challenges demand that leaders make significant sacrifices to set an example for the nation.

He further called for the abolishment of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), stating that the funds should be redirected towards paying pending bills and other critical financial obligations. Additionally, he suggested reducing the number of Cabinet Secretaries and Principal Secretaries to 10 each, as part of a broader effort to streamline government operations.

In a bid to cut down on government spending, Ndingo also urged the cessation of public harambees, all forms of development, supplies, and renovations for a period of five years. He believes that this would allow the government to prioritize debt repayment and other essential financial obligations.

Among other proposals, Ndingo recommended eliminating funds for tea and petty cash in government institutions, halting public holiday celebrations, and suspending foreign travel for state officers for the next five years. He also called for a freeze on public hiring and urged the government to restrict all public officers to using only one car with an engine capacity of under 2000cc.

To ensure transparency and accountability, Ndingo proposed quarterly lifestyle audits for all state officers. He asserted that these measures would help restore public trust in the government and contribute to the country’s economic progress.

“The country is facing serious economic challenges, and it’s time we made tough decisions. These measures will help us reduce unnecessary expenditure and focus on paying our debts and building a sustainable economy,” said Ndingo.

The MCA’s proposals have sparked a conversation on the need for fiscal discipline within the government, with some supporting the measures as necessary for the country’s progress, while others view them as too extreme. As the debate continues, all eyes will be on how these suggestions are received at the national level.