NAIROBI, Kenya – Tensions are brewing between senators and governors over a new Bill that seeks to expand the Senate’s authority in monitoring how counties spend public funds.
The County Oversight and Accountability Bill, 2024, sponsored by Narok Senator Ledama Olekina, proposes the establishment of county oversight offices to track the use of billions of shillings allocated to devolved units.
If enacted, the law would strengthen the Senate’s hand in ensuring transparency and accountability in county spending — a move governors say could erode devolution by allowing senators to interfere in county affairs.
“These budgets are often guided by governors’ manifestos, not by clear public participation. We need a law that makes citizens part of the process,” Senator Olekina said while introducing the Bill.
The proposed legislation provides for public participation frameworks, the publication of county budgets for citizen scrutiny, and the creation of county halls where governors and finance officials will be required to present budget proposals for public discussion.
According to Olekina, the absence of a structured legal framework for public engagement has left many residents uninformed about how county resources are allocated.
He cited the recent debate in Narok over ward development funds, saying many citizens confused them with the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF).
“People thought it was free money for projects. This Bill will help citizens understand and influence what their counties prioritize,” he added.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna backed the proposal, saying it will clearly define how senators exercise their oversight role under Article 96(3) of the Constitution.
“Public participation in county budgets remains weak. This Bill can help align Senate oversight with what the courts have already said about our constitutional mandate,” Sifuna noted.
Elgeyo Marakwet Senator William Kisang, who seconded the motion, said that more than a decade after devolution began, many citizens still lack awareness of county budget cycles.
“We need spaces where the people can directly engage governors and finance CECs. The county halls will make that possible,” Kisang said.
If passed, the County Oversight and Accountability Bill could significantly reshape the balance of power between senators and governors — potentially setting the stage for a political showdown over control of devolved finances.
