Members of Parliament have been locked out of their offices at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) due to rent arrears amounting to Sh50 million, sparking tension between the Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC) and the KICC management.
The standoff was confirmed in a letter dated May 9, 2024, from PSC Accounting Officer Clement Nyandiere to KICC Chief Executive Officer James Mwaura. In the letter, Nyandiere urged KICC to grant MPs continued access to the facility while the Commission seeks funds to clear the pending payments before the end of the current financial year.
“The PSC is in the process of seeking funds to settle the outstanding amount by the end of the financial year. In view of this, we request that you allow the Members of Parliament to continue accessing the facilities at KICC, including patrolling of COMESA grounds without interference,” read part of the letter.
The PSC has been in a long-standing contract with KICC, which provides office accommodation and parking facilities for MPs. Nyandiere emphasized that the partnership has been productive over the years, with the Commission consistently meeting its financial obligations—though occasionally delayed due to budgetary constraints and delays in exchequer releases.
Nyandiere highlighted that, despite the current arrears, the PSC had made significant payments in the recent past. “You may recall that this Financial Year, the PSC has settled previous payments totaling Sh134 million Sh73 million for the year 2023/2024 and Sh61 million for the current financial year up to December 2024,” he noted.
The situation has caused frustration among MPs, some of whom are reportedly unable to access crucial services and resources tied to their legislative work. As the financial year draws to a close, pressure is mounting on the PSC to resolve the matter swiftly.
KICC is yet to issue a public response to the PSC’s request, leaving uncertainty over whether access will be restored before the rent is cleared. The incident highlights ongoing financial strains within government institutions and the delicate balance between service delivery and fiscal responsibility.
