The reported £280,000 annual salary of Mukund Krishna, CEO of the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW), has ignited outrage among rank-and-file officers, especially as many face significant financial struggles.
Allegations Surface on Social Media
The controversy erupted after an account named PFEW_Whistle on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) revealed details of Krishna’s compensation package. The claims were made during the Federation’s National Council meeting and included allegations that Krishna is set to receive a financial bonus for finalizing a settlement in a high-profile pension discrimination case.
In a post on November 19, the account stated:
“At today’s National Council, PFEW_HQ’s CEO has announced he will be receiving a financial bonus for closing the settlement with Leigh Day. That’s on top of his salary, which we can today reveal is approximately £280,000 per annum.”
The post also criticized Krishna’s role in the pension scandal as the Federation’s former Operations Director, questioning the justification for such a significant bonus.
Rank-and-File Frustration
The revelations have sparked widespread discontent among officers, many of whom are grappling with financial hardship and even resorting to food banks. Critics pointed out the stark contrast between the Federation’s financial challenges and Krishna’s high pay.
PFEW_Whistle further stated:
“Next time a PFEW_HQ national board member tells you about officers needing higher pay or cries crocodile tears over members using foodbanks, remember they signed this salary and this bonus off.”
Reaction on X
The social media post has drawn strong reactions, with one user questioning:
“MPFed, I would hope this is being opposed.”
Another highlighted the Federation’s financial struggles, writing:
“Why does someone on £280k need a bonus from a cash-strapped organisation that is financially on its knees?”
Broader Context
The PFEW, representing over 130,000 officers, has faced growing criticism over transparency and leadership. Officers have voiced frustration at the lack of progress in addressing low pay and challenging working conditions, while the Federation itself has reportedly struggled financially in recent years.
Federation Response Pending
At the time of writing, the Police Federation of England and Wales has not publicly responded to the claims. However, the controversy is likely to intensify calls for greater accountability and a review of leadership salaries.
Growing Divide
The incident underscores a widening rift between leadership and rank-and-file officers, many of whom feel the Federation is out of touch with their struggles. With police pay and conditions already under scrutiny, the revelations have added fuel to an already tense debate over fairness and transparency within the organisation.
