Dagoretti North Member of Parliament Beatrice Elachi has insisted that Chief Administrative Secretaries (CASs) positions should be reinstated urging that it will boost tax payment.
In a media interview on Thursday, December 7, the former CAS for Gender and Public Service stated that the positions will not only help ministries perform better but will also create a bigger base of tax.
Further, she explained that apart from the CASs paying taxes, they will also create employment for the rest of individuals who will be working under them.
“Even if they get salaries, they will pay taxes. They employ others and ensure that we send more tax to government. It is not an issue of whether we have money or not.
“I want a positive turn. Yes, we have a crisis, but this is not the first time Kenya is finding itself in crisis. We cannot keep lamenting,” she argued.
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Elachi on Why CASs are Needed in Ministries
In addition, she argued that Cabinet Secretaries needed assistance especially because they were already overseeing some crucial entities in the government.
According to Elachi, ministries will deliver better performance with the establishment of Chief Administrative Secretaries
“In fairness of the country, of the delivery of service and ensuring that those ministries function in the right way, you need a deputy with a clear role,
“Who will represent the CS in meetings when they are not around. Who will follow through on all the other issues that are within the ministry,” the argued.
CAS Bill Tabled Before the National Assembly
Earlier on Wednesday, December 6, the National Assembly presided over the first reading of a bill seeking to establish and define the role of Chief Administrative Secretaries (CASs).
The bills sought to provide for the establishment and functions of the Head of the Public Service and offices of the CASs by amending four acts including the National Government Coordination Act.
Further, according to the bill, the Public Service Commission (PSC) will recommend nominees of the positions to the President. Subsequently, the National Assembly will approve the names and the President will later appoint the recommended persons.
In addition, the bill detailed that only those with a bachelor’s degree, knowledge and experience in public service will be eligible for the positions.
Also, the candidates will not be eligible if they commit any offence, are bankrupt or are holders of any political party position.
Notably, the monthly remuneration for one CAS is Ksh765,188, making the total monthly salary for all 50 candidates Ksh38,259,400, according to the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).
In addition, each CAS is eligible for a one-time mortgage payment of Ksh35 million and a Ksh10 million car grant, bringing total take-home income to Ksh990 million.