Senator Cherargei Advocates 46,000 JSS Teachers Confirmation Amid Budget Adjustments
Senator Samson Cherargei of Nandi County has called for prioritizing essential services, particularly education and healthcare, in the wake of budget adjustments necessitated by the rejection of the finance bill by President William Ruto.
The finance bill, initially projected to generate an additional 300 billion shillings, was rejected by the President, prompting necessary amendments to the appropriation and division of revenue bills.
Senator Cherargei explained that the original financial plans, which were to be aligned with the finance bill, must now be revised.
Using the example of counties, Cherargei highlighted that the initial allocation of 41 billion shillings to counties needs to be reviewed.
This will require amendments to the County Allocation of Revenue Act (CARA) and the Division of Revenue Act.
Amid concerns about potential budget cuts affecting essential services, Senator Cherargei emphasized that Parliament is aware of the country’s challenges and must make transparent decisions.
He stressed the importance of safeguarding key areas such as education and healthcare.
Junior Secondary School (JSS) Teachers
Cherargei argued against any budget cuts impacting Junior Secondary Schools. He insisted that the 46,000 JSS teachers currently under internship should be transitioned to permanent and pensionable positions.
“We should not cut down on JSS junior secondary schools. When the cutting of budget comes we must ensure that 46,000 uh JSS teachers under internship program are transited to permanent and pensionable
Healthcare
He also underscored the need to absorb medical intern doctors to maintain Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Eliminating Extravagant Expenditures
Senator Cherargei advocated for the elimination of non-essential and extravagant expenditures to balance the budget. He pointed out several areas where the government could save money:
- Reducing expenses on non-essential offices, such as those of the First Lady and Second Lady.
- Eliminating daily fresh flower purchases for government offices.
- Cutting down on unnecessary expenses like daily newspapers for government offices.
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Cherargei concluded by asserting that while budget cuts are necessary, they should not compromise essential services such as education and healthcare.
He urged Parliament to make decisions that reflect the best interests of the public, ensuring that critical programs and personnel, like JSS teachers and medical interns, are not adversely affected.
Senator Cherargei Advocates 46,000 JSS Teachers Confirmation Amid Budget Adjustments
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