Governors across the country have issued a stern warning, threatening to shut down all operations within their counties if the national treasury does not release funds within the next 30 days.
The announcement came during the County KICOSCA (Kenya Inter-County Sports and Cultural Association) games held at the Mumias Sports Complex on Monday November 25,2024, where a number of county leaders gathered.
Among the governors speaking out were Kisii Governor Simba Arati, Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza, and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, who voiced their concerns over the ongoing delay in the disbursement of funds to counties.
These governors accused some government officials of deliberately frustrating devolution by withholding funds that are essential for county operations.
The county leaders emphasized that this delay in funding is negatively impacting key projects and services in their counties, many of which have been stalled due to the lack of financial resources.
Governors Arati, Barasa, Mwangaza, and Natembeya underscored the importance of adhering to the Constitution, particularly when it comes to the independence of counties and their ability to manage their resources and deliver services to the people.
They called for the immediate release of funds to counties as per the constitutional mandates, urging the national government to respect devolution.
If the situation is not addressed within the next 30 days, the governors warned that they would have no choice but to shut down county operations, which could have a serious impact on public services, healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
The governors’ threat highlights the growing tension between county governments and the national treasury over the timely release of funds, an issue that has plagued devolution efforts since its inception.
Devolution was intended to ensure that resources reach the grassroots, but delays and underfunding have hindered the potential of counties to fully execute their mandates.
