A rent dispute totalling Sh50 million has led to Members of Parliament being locked out of their offices at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).

The Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC) has now requested KICC to restore access to the facilities as it works to clear the arrears before the financial year ends on June 30, 2025.

In a letter dated May 9, 2024, PSC Accounting Officer Clement Nyandiere appealed to KICC CEO James Mwaura to allow MPs to access the building while the commission works to settle the outstanding rent.

“The PSC is in the process of seeking funds to settle the outstanding amount by the end of the financial year. In view of this, we request that you allow the Members of Parliament to continue accessing the facilities at KICC, including patrolling of COMESA grounds without interference,” Nyandiere wrote.

He further clarified that the PSC has a long-standing contract with KICC to provide accommodation and parking spaces for legislators. He emphasised that, despite occasional delays caused by budgetary constraints, the commission has consistently met its financial obligations.

“Although sometimes there have been delays due to exchequer and budgetary constraints, you may recall that this Financial Year, the PSC has settled previous payments totaling Sh134 million, broken down into Sh73 million for the year 2023/2024 and Sh61 million for the current financial year up to December 2024,” Nyandiere added.

The commission's request is for MPs to regain access to the KICC facilities, including parking at the COMESA grounds, as the PSC works to clear the arrears.