By KPC Reporter
The Senate Standing Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations has taken a firm stance on improving financial transparency and accountability within Kenya’s county governments.
Meeting in Nairobi on Thursday, 28th September 2023, the committee proposed a bold reform: integrating county bank accounts with the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) to allow real-time oversight of financial transactions.
This move, they argued, would significantly reduce the opacity surrounding county financial operations and help curb the misuse of public funds.
Senator Mohamed Abbas Sheikh, a vocal member of the committee, emphasized the urgency of the proposal.
He stated that linking county accounts directly to the CBK would empower oversight bodies and restore public confidence in county governance.
His remarks came in response to a recent report by the Auditor-General, which exposed widespread irregularities and inefficiencies in county financial management.
Senator Enock Wambua echoed these concerns, pointing out that the problem extended beyond financial mismanagement to the very laws that govern devolution.
“Many existing statutes are outdated, contradictory, or poorly aligned with the goals of Kenya’s devolved system,” he said.
According to Wambua, amending these laws is essential to ensure counties can operate effectively and deliver services to their constituents.
The committee didn’t stop at proposing financial reforms.
It also flagged dozens of laws that it believes are obstructing the full realization of devolution.
In response, the senators called for a comprehensive legislative review aimed at streamlining intergovernmental operations and strengthening county governance structures.
To ensure that these reforms are not merely theoretical, the committee has engaged key stakeholders, including the Council of Governors, the Controller of Budget, and the National Treasury.
These consultations are intended to build consensus and facilitate the smooth implementation of the proposed changes.
“This is not just a Senate issue—it’s a national concern,” Senator Abbas noted.
“We are working with all relevant bodies to ensure that the spirit of devolution is not just preserved but strengthened.”
The meeting was attended by members of the Senate Standing Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations, including Mohamed Abbas Sheikh (Wajir), and Enock Wambua (Kitui).
Others were Catherine Mumma (Nominated), Raphael Chimera (Kwale), Richard Onyonka (Kisii), and Tabitha Mutinda (Nominated).