This archive report was first published on 30 August 2019.
Mediation talks between the Senate and the National Assembly on the Division of Revenue Bill collapsed for the second time on Wednesday, deepening the crisis that has led to strikes in some counties over delayed salaries.
According to Council of Governors chairman Wycliffe Oparanya, counties are seeking an allocation of Sh335 billion for the 2019-20 financial year, but the National Government has insisted that only Sh316 billion is available.
Oparanya warned that if the revenue issue is not resolved by September 16, devolution will crumble, and county governments will have no option but to shut down.
He noted that the financial crunch has completely disrupted key operations in the counties, and county workers should prepare for tough times ahead.
On matters related to the referendum, Oparanya said governors will carry out consultations with the Senate and county assemblies before reaching an agreement on potential reforms to the current Constitution.
The Council of Governors has initiated its own process, known as the 'Ugatuzi Initiative', in consultations with other players in Government to see how the Constitution can be reformed.
