Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei tabled a motion in the Senate on May 4, 2026, seeking to audit, reduce, or eliminate state benefits for former President Uhuru Kenyatta over his alleged partisan political involvement, violating retirement laws. The proposal, requiring two-thirds parliamentary support, has sparked backlash from Kenyatta's allies amid ongoing political tensions.
On May 4, 2026, Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei tabled a motion in the Senate targeting state-funded retirement benefits for Kenya's fourth president, Uhuru Kenyatta, accusing him of violating the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act through direct partisan involvement.
The motion argues Kenyatta has contravened the Act—effective from 2003 and amended in 2013—by attending political rallies, issuing statements, and engaging in mobilization, including a recent speech in Narok criticizing President William Ruto's administration while addressing Jubilee members and welcoming Secretary General Moitalel ole Kenta. "These actions can be interpreted as direct participation in party politics, contrary to legal requirements," Cherargei said. The Act intends for retired presidents to remain non-partisan and serve in national advisory roles.
Under the Act, a retired president receives 80% of the sitting president's salary as pension, plus 15% entertainment allowance, 23% housing, an office with furniture, and 34 staff. The 2025/2026 budget allocates Sh362 million to Kenyatta, down from Sh448.7 million the previous year.
The motion invokes Parliament's oversight on public finances and calls for a comprehensive audit by the Auditor-General and state agencies, with a report due within 60 days. It seeks withdrawal or reduction of all benefits, directing any recovered funds to ordinary Kenyans' welfare. Passage requires two-thirds support from all MPs per Section 4 of the Act.
Kenyatta's allies pushed back. Jubilee deputy leader Dr. Fred Matiang’i dismissed the motion as politically motivated: “President Kenyatta retired, is a Jubilee member, and continues fulfilling his duties as such. Let him do so and the government focus on serving citizens.” Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua added, "Uhuru Kenyatta is our leader. Just because he is retired doesn’t mean his mind is retired. He still has an opinion." Kenyatta himself stated, “Honestly, I have the right to defend my party. I am not seeking any position, but I am a member of Jubilee in every way—fully and wholeheartedly." Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu said, “Uhuru Kenyatta must have freedom like any other Kenyan. And we are ready to protect him.”
Tensions trace back to 2022, when Kenyatta's benefits were temporarily withheld before restoration, allowing use of his Caledonia residence near State House as an office.
