Senators are pushing for counties to receive Sh465 billion as their equitable share of revenue in the upcoming financial year, a move that is likely to spark another standoff with the national government.
This proposal has already raised concerns over how the national government will respond, given its history of opposing such increments. Governors argue that the current allocations are too low, making it difficult for them to provide essential services to citizens.
They believe that increasing county funding is necessary to strengthen devolution and ensure that local governments function effectively.The proposed amount is a significant increase from previous disbursements, reflecting the rising costs of governance and development at the county level.
Many counties struggle with inadequate healthcare facilities, poor road infrastructure, and delayed salaries for workers due to funding shortages. Senators pushing for this increment say that the Constitution guarantees counties a fair share of revenue and that underfunding them weakens devolution.
They insist that counties must have enough resources to run key functions like health, agriculture, and local road maintenance, which are fully devolved.
Despite this push, the national government has consistently resisted such increases, citing financial constraints. Treasury officials argue that the government is struggling with revenue shortfalls and mounting national debt, making it difficult to allocate more funds to counties.
They warn that increasing county allocations could put more pressure on the national budget, affecting other critical programs such as infrastructure development, security, and education.
The government has also raised concerns about accountability, questioning whether counties are using their current allocations efficiently.
Cases of corruption and misuse of funds in some counties have been used as a justification for limiting further allocations.
The debate over revenue allocation has been a long-standing issue between the national and county governments. In the past, disputes over county funds have led to prolonged negotiations, legal battles, and delays in disbursements.
If the Senate’s proposal stands, it will likely lead to another round of tough negotiations between the Senate, the National Assembly, and the Executive. While senators argue that counties need more money to serve the public better, the Executive is more focused on managing the national budget deficit.
Counties are hoping that they will receive the Sh465 billion they seek, while the national government is likely to push for a lower figure.
The final decision will determine how well counties can deliver services in the next financial year. If a compromise is not reached, another legal and political battle over county funding could be on the horizon.
