The proposed Bill, passed by the National Assembly and awaiting Senate debate, seeks to cut county budgets by KSh 38.4 billion. Governors claim this move threatens essential services and weakens devolution.
Governors Issue 14-Day Ultimatum, Threaten to Shut Down County Operations Over Diverted Funds
“This blatant act is yet another attempt to systematically cripple service delivery across the 47 county governments and an affront to the devolution agenda as enshrined in the Constitution,” Kahiga stated.
He dismissed claims that budget cuts resulted from a revenue shortfall following the withdrawal of the Finance Bill 2024. Instead, he pointed out that the government increased its own spending by KSh 114 billion in the Supplementary Appropriations Act 2025.
“These fallacious assertions depict how the national government casually handles the devolution agenda. It should be noted that counties had already made commitments to finance ongoing projects,” he added.
They called on senators to reject the Bill, saying it undermines devolution.
“We wish to applaud and appreciate the Senate for continuously defending devolution as provided in the Constitution. We implore them to stand firm with the people of Kenya in resisting these unconstitutional budgetary reductions and safeguarding the gains of devolution,” Kahiga urged.
Governors Fight Back: 14-Day Ultimatum Over Budget Cuts
Frustration Over Funding Cuts
Tharaka-Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki voiced his frustration, questioning why the national government would slash funding for projects backed by external donors.
“These projects operate under strict timelines and are crucial for counties. Cutting funding puts them at risk of failure,” Njuki argued.
Top-Performing Governors Recognized
Despite financial challenges, some governors continue excelling in leadership. A recent Infotrak survey ranked Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Kakamega’s Fernandes Barasa, Murang’a’s Irungu Kang’ata, and Trans Nzoia’s George Natembeya among Kenya’s top-performing governors.
