New Deduction For Teachers and Other Civil Servants
Teachers and other civil servants are facing the prospect of reduced salaries due to the impending enactment of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) bill. This bill, despite public opposition, has advanced to the second reading in Parliament.
Members of Parliament from various political parties have supported amendments to transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to SHIF, featuring revised contribution rates. The bill aims to establish a Social Security Insurance Authority, replacing the existing NHIF, and it is scheduled for consideration by the entire House.
Once the bill becomes law, all taxpayers, including teachers and civil servants, will see a mandatory 2.75% deduction from their salaries to fund SHIF. This development has sparked outrage among civil society organizations, who caution against further burdening Kenyan citizens.
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah supports the move, believing it will transform healthcare delivery and combat corruption that has siphoned funds meant for the sick.
According to Ichung’wah, SHIF aims to build on the country’s healthcare progress and expedite the achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), addressing the inefficiencies and governance issues plaguing NHIF while ensuring financial sustainability.
Minority Whip Junet Mohamed emphasizes that corruption remains a significant issue and must be tackled for the healthcare system to improve.
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Civil society organizations strongly criticize the proposed 2.75% monthly deduction from taxpayers’ payslips, accusing the government of imposing additional taxes without considering the people’s financial burden.
The Okoa Uchumi group also accuses the government of disregarding public input in forums related to these bills, seeing them as mere formalities.
The Social Health Insurance Bill is one of four legislative proposals from the Executive designed to expedite the implementation of the health plan. The other bills include the Digital Health Bill, the Primary Healthcare Bill, and the Facility Improvement Bill.
New Deduction For Teachers and Other Civil Servants
