SRC Freezes Salary Hike for State Officers After Public Outcry

The Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) has halted the planned salary increases for State officers, including Members of Parliament, following massive public uproar and consultations with the National Treasury.

SRC Chairperson Lyn Mengich announced the freeze on Wednesday, citing current economic hardships and a reduced 2024/2025 budget. Mengich stated, "In view of the emerging fiscal constraints and the proposed budget cuts, SRC has reviewed the pay for the second phase of the implementation for 2024/2025."

Mengich emphasized that the decision was made to ensure the affordability and fiscal sustainability of the public wage bill. She defended the initial proposal to raise MPs' salaries, explaining it was in accordance with legal requirements for biennial reviews, which were delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.