In a press briefing held in Nairobi on November 15, 2024, Raila Odinga, the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), condemned Members of Parliament (MPs) for their attempts to control county revenue allocations through the controversial Division of Revenue Amendment Bill. This bill has sparked a significant standoff between the National Assembly and the Senate, raising concerns over the future of devolution in Kenya.
Raila slams MPs over interference with county government: photo courtesy
Raila Odinga, a prominent political figure and former Prime Minister of Kenya, is at the forefront of defending devolution against what he describes as a power grab by MPs. He criticized the National Assembly for overstepping its constitutional mandate and encroaching on executive functions that should be reserved for county governments. The MPs involved in this controversy are primarily those supporting the proposed amendments to the revenue allocation bill.
The Division of Revenue Amendment Bill proposes to allocate Sh380 billion to counties, which is significantly lower than the Sh400 billion stipulated in current law. Senators initially advocated for an even higher allocation of Sh416 billion.
This reduction has led to accusations from Odinga that MPs are undermining devolution, which is a cornerstone of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution aimed at promoting equitable resource distribution across the country.
Odinga stated, “This standoff is about a power grab and an assault on the Constitution. MPs are attempting a cruel betrayal of the people and an overhaul of our governance structure.” He emphasized that allowing MPs to manage funds designated for county projects would create a serious accountability crisis.
The ongoing conflict has escalated recently as negotiations between the two houses of Parliament have stalled. The mediation committee, co-chaired by Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro and Mandera Senator Ali Roba, is tasked with resolving this deadlock. The committee’s discussions have focused on historical revenue collection trends and the need for adequate funding to ensure effective county operations.
The press briefing took place in Nairobi, where Odinga articulated his concerns about the implications of the proposed amendments for Kenya’s devolved governance system. He highlighted that this issue is not just about numbers but represents a broader struggle over power dynamics between national and county governments.
Odinga’s remarks underscore the critical importance of maintaining robust devolution in Kenya. He argued that any attempt by MPs to reduce funding to counties could lead to a gradual strangulation of local governance structures, ultimately harming public service delivery. He stated, “The law is very clear on revenue sharing. MPs must stick to their constitutional mandate of representation, legislation, and oversight.”
He further warned that if these changes are allowed to proceed, it would set a dangerous precedent for future governance in Kenya. “This move is not only illegal and unconstitutional but also sets an extremely dangerous precedent,” he added.
The Division of Revenue Amendment Bill has highlighted ongoing tensions between different levels of government in Kenya. As MPs seek greater control over executive functions traditionally managed by governors, concerns arise about accountability and transparency in governance. The Road Maintenance Levy Fund (RMLF), which has become a focal point in this debate, exemplifies the struggle for control over public resources.
Odinga’s criticism also reflects broader sentiments among political leaders who advocate for preserving devolution as a means to ensure equitable resource distribution across Kenya’s diverse regions. He emphasized that devolution is essential for fostering economic development and addressing historical inequalities.
As discussions continue within Parliament regarding the Division of Revenue Amendment Bill, Raila Odinga’s vocal opposition serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between national oversight and local governance in Kenya.
The outcome of this dispute will have lasting implications for the country’s political landscape and its commitment to devolved governance. With calls for urgent resolution echoing through political circles, it remains to be seen how lawmakers will navigate this contentious issue while upholding constitutional principles designed to protect devolution and promote equitable development across all counties in Kenya.
