This archive report was first published on 7 August 2020.
On August 7, 2020, ODM leader Raila Odinga's stance on the third basis revenue formula underwent a significant shift. Initially, he had urged Senators to adopt the controversial formula, which would see counties receive funds based on their population. However, Raila now seeks a win-win formula that would prevent any county from losing funds.
The third revenue basis would have seen at least 18 devolved units lose money to more populated counties, particularly Coastal and North Eastern regions, which have been historically marginalized. This change in stance was met with skepticism, with some interpreting it as a betrayal of the regions that have supported his presidential ambitions.
Coastal leaders, including four ODM governors, had released a statement accusing Raila of prioritizing the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) report over the interests of their people. However, Raila's secret meeting with Coast governors, organized by Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho, revealed a different narrative.
During the meeting, which took place at Joho's Vipingo Ridge residence, Raila received a briefing from the governors on the reasons behind their opposition to the formula. The leaders agreed that a win-win formula was the best approach, ensuring no county loses funds. Raila later stated in an interview with the Daily Nation that the new formula should be shelved until devolved units receive more funds from the National Government.
