Raila proposes pension perks for two-term governors

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has called for a change in the law to guarantee two-term governors an automatic pension, mirroring the benefits enjoyed by Members of Parliament.

Speaking at the Devolution Conference in Homa Bay on Thursday, Odinga recalled that during his time in Parliament, MPs amended the law to ensure legislators who served at least two terms qualified for retirement benefits. He questioned why a similar arrangement could not be extended to governors, noting that they also operate under term limits and carry significant leadership responsibilities.

“In Parliament, we did an amendment so that any MP who serves two terms is entitled to a pension. Why can’t we do the same for governors? A governor who has served two terms needs to be entitled automatically to a pension,” Odinga said.

The ODM leader argued that the proposal would both recognise the service of governors and provide them with financial security after leaving office, enabling them to continue contributing to national development without economic strain. He urged MPs to take up the matter and introduce the amendment in Parliament.

Odinga also reaffirmed his strong support for devolution, describing it as one of the most transformative provisions of the 2010 Constitution. He noted that devolution had brought governance and development closer to the people, empowered local decision-making, and allowed counties to better address unique regional needs.

However, he emphasised that for devolution to reach its full potential, there should be performance-based incentives for counties. “I want to propose that there be some incentive arrangements between the national and county governments through which the national government will reward those counties that deliver the best services,” he said.

Outlining his vision for the relationship between the national government and the 47 counties, Odinga underscored the importance of county assemblies in holding local executives accountable. He maintained that both levels of government must operate effectively without one overshadowing the other.

“I believe in devolution; I believe in more, not less devolution. I believe in a balance of power between Nairobi and the counties; neither should stand in the way of the other. I believe in strong county executives oversighted by equally strong county assemblies,” he said.