Odinga hits out at MPs over 'power grab'
Politics
By
Mate Tongola
| Nov 15, 2024
Azimio leader Raila Odinga has defended the performance of governors, noting their efforts to deliver services at the grassroots.
He has also accused Members of Parliament of undermining devolution by encroaching on the responsibilities of county governments.
Speaking at his Capitol Hill office in Nairobi, Odinga urged the National Assembly and the Senate to resolve their standoff over an additional Sh20 billion in shareable revenue for counties.
“The National Assembly is determined to reduce revenue allocation to counties, disregarding the Constitution and Senate recommendations. This move is not only illegal but unconstitutional,” he stated.
The ODM leader warned that the ongoing impasse could paralyse county operations, threatening the foundation of devolution.
READ MORE
Scientists root for genome editing to boost food security
TVETs to get Sh49 million funding for tech training
Amsons' bid for Bamburi Cement gets Comesa approval
Co-op Bank third-quarter profit jumps to Sh19b on higher income
I am not about to retire, Equity's James Mwangi says
Report: Construction sector leads in mobile money use
Delayed projects leave Kenya's blue economy limping
Firms seek solutions in renewable energy to curb high cost of power
New KPCU plan to boost coffee drinking targets schools, youth
Middle East, Asian firms major attractions at the Construction Expo
“This sets a dangerous precedent that could gradually suffocate and ultimately dismantle counties,” added Odinga.
His remarks come days after the mediation committee on the Division of Revenue (Amendment) Bill, 2024, failed to reach an agreement on the allocation for the 47 counties.
The National Assembly has proposed Sh380 billion, while the Senate is pushing for Sh400.1 billion to be allocated to the devolved units.
The deadlock has sparked concerns about the future of devolution and its ability to serve Kenyans effectively.