By Primerose Omoto
Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya Coalition has stressed the need to strengthen devolution to ensure proper equitable distribution of resources.
In a statement that was released after the coalitionβs leadership held a forum with its affiliated governors in Mombasa, the coalition maintained that there must be good inter-governmental relationships in accordance with the constitution.
“We believe in good governance, strengthening the devolved system and ensuring equitable distribution of resources and service to our Counties. The objective of our meeting is to ensure that county governments work effectively and maintain good inter-governmental relationships with the national government in accordance with Article 6 of the constitution,” read the statement.
The meeting reviewed the challenges County Governments faced in the delivery of services for the past year after the August 9, 2022, general election. 17 governors were in attendance.
The national government is accused of micromanaging in an attempt to take over some of the functions of the County Government.
This has led to the stagnation of projects due to delayed reimbursement of money by the national government to the county government.Β
“We note that the Devolution is the best thing that has happened to the people of Kenya in terms of service delivery. The National Government should respect the constitution and stop meddling in the affairs and functions of County Governmentsβ
βThey should desist the current interference in devolved functions such as distribution of fertilizer, construction and opening of markets, health sector and commissioning of industrial parksβ
βThe National Government should release funds allocated to County Governments in time for effectiveness and efficiency in service delivery,” read the statement sent to newsrooms.
Other topics discussed include the intended Privatization of the Port of Mombasa by the Kenya Kwanza administration.
The coalition said it was perturbed by the decision to have the Port privatized without public participation and the involvement of the County Government of Mombasa.
It noted that it does not support the planned privatization of the Port and it will resist any attempts to do so while demanding transparency and openness in the management of public assets as required by law.
