Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has reiterated his advocacy for a regional government level as a potential solution to challenges in Kenya's devolved system. The proposal, first raised at a major devolution conference, aims to address gaps in governance but has drawn questions about its feasibility and impact. Odinga emphasized that counties would remain intact, countering initial assumptions that regional structures might reduce their number.
The writer, an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya, highlighted concerns that the proposal lacks clarity on key issues. A critical question is identifying the specific problems the regional framework seeks to resolve—whether economic viability, service coordination, or administrative efficiency. Without clear objectives, the design risks misalignment with actual needs.
Structural uncertainties also persist. The proposal's relationship with existing county governments remains undefined, raising fears of jurisdictional conflicts. The Bomas Draft initially suggested elected regional legislatures, but the implications for power dynamics between regional and county authorities remain unexplored. Financial sustainability is another major concern, as adding a new governance layer could strain public resources amid economic challenges.
Experts argue that the proposal requires thorough public consultation before a referendum. The writer stressed that voters deserve comprehensive information to make informed decisions, given the proposal's potential to reshape Kenya's political landscape.
