Noordin Haji, the newly sworn-in Director General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) will be entitled to a monthly salary of Ksh765,188. This information was included in a notice published by Lynn Mengich, the chairperson of the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), in the gazette.
As per the notice, the Director General of NIS is eligible for a basic salary of Ksh459,113 along with a house allowance of Ksh150,000.
The Notice, dated July 27, 2022, also specified that the appointed official would receive a salary market adjustment of Ksh156,075. This adjustment would result in a gross salary of Ksh765,188.
“A serving state officer and a state officer appointed on or after the effective date of this gazette notice shall be paid the monthly remuneration set herein.”
“The monthly remuneration set herein is fixed for the term of office of the State officer unless reviewed and set by SRC,” Mengich explained.
A salary market adjustment is a salary modification that considers factors such as market positioning, constitutional guidelines, and statutory principles related to the review of remuneration and benefits. It is a means of ensuring that salaries remain competitive and in line with prevailing market rates and relevant regulations.
In addition to the basic salary, the Director General of the NIS is entitled to several benefits, which include the provision of an official car with an engine capacity not exceeding 3000cc. They also receive medical benefits, which consist of an annual medical cover. The medical cover extends to the state officer, their spouse, and up to four children who are below the age of twenty-five and fully dependent on the state officer.
The medical cover provides coverage up to Ksh10 million for inpatient services, Ksh300,000 for outpatient services, Ksh150,000 for maternity-related expenses, Ksh75,000 for dental services, and an additional Ksh75,000 for optical services. This package aims to ensure comprehensive medical support for the Director General and their immediate family.
In addition to the mentioned benefits, the Director General of the NIS is entitled to various other perks. These include access to classified information, security clearance, and diplomatic immunity, which are essential for effectively carrying out their role.
The role of the Director General of the NIS is crucial as they are responsible for overseeing the National Intelligence Service. This involves gathering and analyzing intelligence related to national security threats. Furthermore, the Director General advises the President and the Cabinet on matters pertaining to national security.
The salary and benefits offered to the Director General of the NIS are commensurate with the significance and responsibilities associated with the position.
The remuneration structure is designed in compliance with the judgment of the Employment and Labour Relations Court Petition 29 of 2019 in Nairobi, with the basic salary set at 60 percent of the gross salary. This ensures fair compensation for the important work carried out by the Director General. Additionally, the retirement package includes a leave allowance, a retirement gratuity, and a pension to support the employee after retirement.