This archive report was first published on 5 September 2019.
Senate Relents, Accepts KSh 316B for Counties ¶
After weeks of intense negotiations, the Senate has finally accepted the allocation of KSh 316 billion for counties as proposed by the National Assembly.
The development comes after President Uhuru Kenyatta intervened, urging both houses to reach a consensus on the allocation of funds to counties.
According to sources, the National Assembly had proposed an allocation of KSh 316.5 billion for counties, while the Senate had insisted on KSh 335.6 billion.
However, in a surprise move, the Senate has now accepted the National Assembly's proposal, paving the way for the allocation of funds to counties.
Speaking to the press, Senate Majority Leader Kipchumba Murkomen said that the Senate had finally agreed to the allocation, despite initial reservations.
"We have finally agreed to the allocation of KSh 316 billion for counties, despite our initial reservations," Murkomen said.
"We understand that sometimes, it is necessary to put aside our differences and work towards a common goal," he added.
The allocation of funds to counties is a major breakthrough, and it is expected to ease the financial burden on counties.
It is worth noting that the allocation of funds to counties has been a contentious issue for years, with both the National Assembly and the Senate having different proposals.
However, with the Senate's acceptance of the National Assembly's proposal, it is expected that the allocation of funds to counties will be smooth sailing.
President Kenyatta had intervened in the matter, urging both houses to reach a consensus on the allocation of funds to counties.
"I urge both houses to work together and reach a consensus on the allocation of funds to counties," President Kenyatta said.
"We need to work together to ensure that counties receive the funds they need to deliver services to their citizens," he added.
It is expected that the allocation of funds to counties will be a major boost to the economy, and it is expected to ease the financial burden on counties.