NAIROBI – Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has been ordered to appear before the Senate after failing to attend a key committee session on pension delays affecting former Kenya Railways workers. CS Mbadi had been scheduled to respond to the Senate Standing Committee on Labour and Social Welfare but instead sent a letter stating he was attending a Cabinet meeting. The committee, chaired by Senator Julius Murgor, rejected the explanation and directed the CS to appear on August 4.
“We will not accept excuses on matters involving citizens’ welfare. The new date ensures no clash with other government business,” Senator Murgor said during Monday’s proceedings.
The session was expected to address complaints raised by retired Kenya Railways employees over prolonged delays in receiving their pensions. It also included follow-up on a petition from former councillors seeking a one-time payment of Ksh 200,000 each for their past service.
Committee members also sought clarity on whether the government would include retired councillors and their spouses in the Social Health Authority (SHA) program. The proposed inclusion would give them access to medical care at public health facilities within their counties.
CS Mbadi, a former nominated MP under ODM and long-time advocate for pensioners’ rights, was accused of failing to match his previous public stance with action. “He was once vocal about retirees getting their dues. This is his chance to act,” one senator stated.
The committee warned that repeated failure to attend scheduled hearings could trigger disciplinary measures under the Senate Standing Orders.
The matter remains urgent as hundreds of retirees await clarity on the payout timeline and health coverage plans. The committee has said it will proceed with or without Mbadi’s cooperation if he skips the next session.
The Senate has promised to push for accountability from the Treasury as the issue continues to draw attention from former public servants seeking justice after years of waiting.
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