This archive report was first published on 18 October 2019.
The devolution of power to counties was meant to bring development and services closer to the people, but it has been hijacked by greedy and self-centred county leaders.
According to a report by the Controller of Budget, some Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) are pocketing up to Sh25,000 daily in allowances, leaving a small portion for development.
Majority of governors have been rendered helpless by MCAs through intimidation and threats of impeachment, leaving them as lame duck leaders.
Most counties lack basic facilities, services, and policies needed to spur growth, and medicines, health equipment, and other essential items are out of stock.
It is time for MCAs to rethink the interest of those who elected them and do what they should.
President Uhuru Kenyatta should take note of the profligacy and order a crackdown on those MCAs who think it's 'their turn to eat' and order them to return the money.
As George Orwell wrote in Animal Farm, 'all animals are equal but some are more equal than others'. It is such a shame that some MCAs are taking home hefty, undeserved and unnecessary allowances.
