The Presidential Retirement Benefits Act outlines the benefits of a retired President in Kenya. A “retired President” refers to an individual who has held and vacated the office of the President as per the Constitution.
Eligibility for Presidential Retirement Benefits
The following individuals are entitled to benefits under the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act:
- A retired President
- The surviving spouse of a retired President
- The surviving spouse of a President who dies while in office
Retirement Benefits for a Retired President
1. Lump Sum Payment
A one-time payment equal to one year’s salary for each term served as President.
2. Monthly Pension
A monthly pension equal to 80% (KES 693,000) of the current President’s monthly salary.
3. Entertainment Allowance
A retired President shall receive an entertainment allowance equal to 15% (KES 129,937.50) of the current President’s salary.
4. Housing Allowance
A housing allowance equal to 23% (KES 199,237.50) of the current President’s salary, covering both urban and rural residences.
5. Office Space
The retired President is entitled to 1,000 square metres of office space with furniture, office machines, and supplies, all maintained by the government.
6. Official Vehicles
A retired President shall receive:
- Two new cars of their choice, replaced every three years (engine capacity not exceeding 3000cc)
- Two four-wheel drive vehicles, replaced every three years (engine capacity at least 3400cc)
7. Fuel Allowance
A fuel allowance equal to 15% (KES 129,937.50) of the current President’s salary.
8. Utilities Allowance
An allowance for electricity, water, and telephone services, equal to 23% (KES 199,237.50) of the current President’s salary.
9. Medical Cover
A comprehensive medical cover for local and overseas treatment for:
- The retired President
- The spouse of the retired President
- Children under 18 years old
10. Additional Benefits
The Schedule of the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act provides the following additional entitlements:
- Two personal assistants
- Four secretaries
- Four messengers
- Four drivers
- Security personnel, including:
- Personal guards and escort unit, as approved by the Minister for National Security
- Security for the retired President’s residences (urban & rural)
- Four cooks
- Four housekeepers
- Four gardeners
- Four laundry personnel
- Four house cleaners
- Office maintenance and vehicle maintenance
- A diplomatic passport for the President and spouse
- Local travel expenses
- International travel allowance (up to four trips per year, each lasting up to two weeks)
- Access to VIP lounges at all airports in Kenya
11. State Funeral
Upon their death, a retired President shall receive a State Funeral.
For more details, refer to the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act:
Kenya Law – Presidential Retirement Benefits Act
