Ndindi Nyoro: I will commit 100 percent of my April salary to the coronavirus fight

Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has vowed to commit 100 percent of his April 2020 salary to help fight the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in the country.

Nyoro made his remarks on Wednesday, April 1, during the launch of Kambirwa Assistant County Commissioner's office, urging his staff members to take a pay cut as well.

The legislator pointed out that despite not having any coronavirus case in the constituency, other informal sectors such as boda boda operators and Mama mbogas are experiencing economic hardships.

"We may not have a single case registered in Kiharu Constituency. However, people in the informal sector, such as boda boda operators and greengrocers, are experiencing the economic hardship wrought by the pandemic."

"And, because we understand the financial problems the virus has subjected this group of people to, I will commit 100 percent of my April salary to the COVID-19 fight. Staff members attached to my office, including the CDF management, will take a 20 percent pay-cut," said the legislator.

Nyoro's announcement comes after several Kenyan politicians vowed to take pay cuts to help fight the spread of the pandemic.

On March 26, Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino wrote to the National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi, saying that he will take a 50% salary pay cut.

"My conscience does not allow me to sit back and watch as Kenyans struggle to make ends meet during this difficult time. This is to therefore notify you that I will be donating 50% of my monthly salary to the national effort against COVID-19. I am requesting your good office to reflect the same," read part of the letter.

Nandi Governor Stephen Sang' on March 23 also announced that he would take a 30 percent pay cut for March and April.

"We have agreed to take pay cuts for the months of March and April, starting with myself and the deputy who will take a 30% pay cut. The County Secretary, CECs, and Chief Officers have agreed to take a 25% pay cut for the same period," said the Governor.

President Uhuru Kenyatta, while announcing his 80 percent pay cut, urged other leaders to do the same, adding that his deputy William Ruto also agreed to have his salary slashed.

Chief Justice David Maraga announced that the Supreme Court judges would take 30 percent salary pay cuts.

"The Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu and myself will take a 30 per cent pay cut for three months. The other four Judges of the Supreme Court – Mr Justice Ibrahim Mohammed, Mr Justice Smokin Wanjala, Lady Justice Njoki Ndung' u and Mr Justice Isaac Lenaola have also graciously agreed to take a 20 per cent pay cut for three months," said Maraga.

Senate Speakers Kenneth Lusaka and Justin Muturi also announced that they would take 30 percent pay cuts to fight the pandemic.

Yesterday, Health CS Mutahi Kagwe announced that the number of coronavirus cases in the country rose by 22, bringing the total to 81.