Kenyans call foul after MPs visit CFC at taxpayer expense

Nairobi – Kenyans expressed their indignation on Thursday when it appeared that a group of lawmakers had gone to the World Cup at the expense of taxpayers, even though the country had failed to qualify for the tournament.

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The scandal erupted after some lawmakers posted selfies on social media of themselves enjoying matches in Russia .

"Is not it a big bad joke that leaders can travel to Russia to watch football while we have a lot of problems here?" asks Sylvester Aseka, who sells used computers in Nairobi.

"Oh my God, I want to believe that this is not true, the pictures that some of them display," said Jacinta Mongin, 26. "It means that they have plenty of time and resources to go to Russia, when will they serve their constituents?"

The daily Star reported that about twenty deputies had gone to Russia earlier this month and were waiting

The cost of accommodation, per diems and match tickets was supported by the government, according to the report.

The estimate of the total cost Star was about $ 450,000 (385,000 euros). In comparison, the minimum wage in Kenya is between $ 120 and $ 280 per month, depending on skills.

In parliament, the president of the National Assembly, Justin Muturi, confirmed the trip but said that it was not a bad thing. They have to prepare a report when they come back and table it in parliament.It's the standard procedure, "he said.

According to The Star, Senate Clerk Jeremiah Nyegenye also defended the trip as" business "

It's their responsibility to understand the sport, how to organize such international tournaments, it's not a holiday and it's too simplistic to regard it as a joyrider mission. "

Kenya's Harambee Stars have never reached the finals of the World Cup and have not qualified for any major international tournament since the Africa Cup of Nations." Nations 2004.

Kenyan legislators – among the highest paid in the world – have often mistreated public opinion, including wage demands. [19659007] Last August, even before taking their seats after a election, the new MPs launched a campaign to r claim higher wages.

Kenya has already been involved in scandals at major sporting events. Several athletics officials have been charged with offenses such as stealing team uniforms.