This archive report was first published on 8 September 2019.
On September 6, 2019, Senate Speaker Ken Lusaka and Siaya Senator James Orengo spoke out on the decision to accept Sh316.5 billion for counties, effectively ending the protracted standoff with the National Assembly.
According to Lusaka, the Senate agreed to the proposed allocation to prevent a shutdown of county governments, which would have had severe consequences.
"Ours was a painful and patriotic decision that was informed by the need to avert the biting crisis in the counties. We just retreated, which should not be interpreted as cowardice," Lusaka said during a fundraiser for women groups at Ahindi Gardens in Siaya town.
Orengo echoed Lusaka's sentiments, stating that the money does not belong to any particular leader, including the President, and that the reforms made in the Constitution of Kenya cannot be changed.
"The monies that come to counties are not a favour from the President but the right of the people of Kenya as they are taxpayers," Orengo said.
He emphasized that the Senate will continue to fight for the people's rights, despite the consequences.
