During a two-day multi-stakeholder engagement forum held over the weekend, Senator Godfrey Osotsi, Chair of the Select Committee on County Public Investments and Special Funds, underscored the concerning issue of non-remittance of pension deductions by various entities across counties.

Senator Osotsi addressed a gathering that included prominent figures such as the Cabinet Secretary (CS) of the National Treasury and Economic Planning, Prof. Njuguna Ndung’u, Senators Prof. Tom Ojienda, Karung’o Thangwa, William Kisang, Miraj Abdillahi, Hamida Kibwana, and other stakeholders. He emphasized the critical nature of retirees' financial security, highlighting that "the failure of some county entities to remit pension deductions to the appropriate institutions has left many retirees struggling to meet basic needs, access healthcare, and support their families."

The primary goal of the forum was a collaborative resolution of this pressing issue. Sen. Osotsi outlined the committee's objectives, which encompass timely pension payments, mitigating penalties from non-remittance, and devising effective solutions for delayed remittances. Key stakeholders like LAPTRUST, CPF, the National Treasury, and the Controller of Budget were engaged, revealing conflicting responses.

Throughout the event, a call for transparent accountability, efficient fund management, and robust oversight mechanisms resonated strongly. Senator Osotsi urged collective action to ensure retirees' financial security, stating that it is a shared responsibility.

Senator Osotsi clarified the committee's expectations arising from the engagement: "timely remittances of pension deductions and the formulation of a comprehensive payment plan for outstanding amounts." He expressed appreciation to participants and the National Treasury for their commitment to addressing the issue, urging all stakeholders to collaboratively seek sustainable solutions for the challenge of non-remittance of pension deductions.

Prof. Ndung’u, the CS, expressed concern about the remittance issue and pledged support for the efforts aimed at rectifying the situation.