While addressing mourners at the funeral of Francis Ngaru, the late husband of former Thika Mayor Mumbi Ngaru, Raila didn’t hold back. He passionately reaffirmed his commitment to devolution and county empowerment.
“How about Affordable Housing? Let counties build Affordable Housing themselves!” Raila declared, receiving thunderous applause from the crowd.
For the 2023/2024 financial year, Ksh35.2 billion was set aside for housing. Out of this, Ksh3.2 billion specifically targeted affordable housing. Additional funds support social housing and mortgage financing through the Kenya Mortgage Refinance Company.
Push for More Devolution
However, Raila was quick to highlight gaps. He slammed the current allocation of devolved funds, arguing that 15 percent is far too little.
“We need 35 to 40 percent devolved funds if counties are to truly develop,” Raila insisted.
“Roads are also devolved. You do not need KURA and KERRA. Have only KeNHA (Kenya National Highways Authority) in the national government, dealing with international highways, national trunk roads, and feeder roads,” Raila said firmly.
“If we let devolution work and increase the allocation to the devolved fund, then we can blame the governors if they are not working. But you cannot blame Governor Sakaja for roads in Nairobi, which are not under his jurisdiction,” Raila emphasized.
Raila Hits Out: Affordable Housing Must Be County-Controlled
A Consistent Voice
Raila has long championed devolution. Time and again, he has warned against any move that undermines county powers. He’s also warned ODM lawmakers and aspirants that their stance on devolution will heavily influence their party fate.
