This archive report was first published on 2 July 2020.
Devolution in Kenya was introduced to disperse resources and decision-making to the local level, with the aim of equitable resource sharing and community empowerment. However, the system is facing significant challenges, including constant bickering between governors and Ward Representatives, and governors and the national government.
One of the main issues is the lack of funds allocated to counties by the National Treasury. Governors have complained that they hardly receive funds on time, and when they do, the amounts are often slashed, leaving counties unable to deliver services. This has led to corruption, wastage, and pilferage in many counties, with grand projects left to rot.
Counties are also struggling to raise revenues, which was one of the goals of devolution. They are meant to be units for social, political, and economic growth, but instead, they rely heavily on the national government for sustenance. This is not the intended outcome of devolution.
Another serious threat to devolution is the local level governance. There have been reports of constant fights between governors and the Members of County Assembly (MCAs). In recent weeks, the contest has been in Kirinyaga County, where MCAs impeached Governor Anne Waiguru on impropriety claims, but the impeachment was vetoed by the Senate due to lack of evidence.
Similarly, in Kitui County, MCAs are seeking to oust Governor Charity Ngilu over claims of impropriety. The leadership of the county assembly directed security officers to throw out Mrs Ngilu's lawyers when they attempted to enter the assembly to defend her. This was unacceptable and inimical to the rule of law.
It is essential to restore order in the counties and for MCAs to play their rightful role methodically, but within the law. They must stop constant harassment of governors and allow them to deliver services to the people.
