Senate committee urges cooperation to address county assemblies financial woes

Sitati Reagan-KNA

The Senate Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation has raised concern over the financial and operational challenges facing county assemblies.

The committee called for greater cooperation between governors and legislators to strengthen devolution.

Led by Chairperson Senator Mwenda Gataya of Tharaka Nithi, the committee, while on tour of Mombasa County Assembly, called on the need for better and cordial relations between the executive and legislature at the county level to foster a seamless working environment.

“We are here following an invitation by the Speaker of the Mombasa County Assembly to assess how the assembly is implementing its legislative mandate and supporting devolution,” Senator Mwenda said.

He noted that the committee’s core responsibility is to examine county legislation, such as tax collection, environment management, and ensure they remain within the confines of the law and do not infringe on constitutional rights.

Senator Mwenda expressed concern over reports that some county assemblies had not received their salaries and had suffered financial cuts.

“We have established that some assemblies have lost funds, allegedly redirected to the governors. This undermines their oversight role,” he stated.

He added that the committee would escalate the matter to the Senate Budget Committee, advocating for financial harmony between governors and county assemblies.

“Oversight in the counties is primarily conducted by the county assemblies. If they are weakened, they cannot effectively monitor county governments,” he emphasized.

The senator further noted ongoing collaboration with other Senate committees to address the recurring issue of delayed disbursement of county funds.

He also highlighted discussions to harmonize the Road Maintenance Levy Fund management between governors and members of Parliament, a subject that has brought great division.

The delegation included Vice Chair Senator Danson Mungatana (Tana River), Senator Dan Maanzo (Makueni), Senator Betty Montet (Nominated), Senator Joyce Korir (Nominated), Senator Julius Murgor (West Pokot), and Senator Issa Juma Boy (Kwale).

Mombasa County Assembly Speaker Hon. Aharub Khatri welcomed the committee and acknowledged the importance of their visit. He confirmed that the deliberations focused on critical challenges, including funding and operational constraints.

“We are encouraged by our discussion, especially as some of the senators present, have previously served in county assemblies and understand these issues firsthand,” Khatri said.

“We’ve agreed to continue this dialogue both here and in Nairobi, to find sustainable solutions that ensure public resources serve the wananchi,” he said.

The committee is expected to compile a comprehensive report with recommendations to strengthen devolution and the effectiveness of county assemblies.