Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kenyans.co.ke
Published on 2024-02-22 12:46:38
Manyatta Constituency MP, Gitonga Mukunji, has put forth a motion to transfer the funding for Member of County Assembly (MCAs) from the county government to the National government. This proposal was made during the National Assembly proceedings on Wednesday, February 21, with the aim of providing autonomy to the County Assembly leaders, in order to empower them to fulfill their responsibilities more effectively.
Mukunji emphasized the need for autonomy for MCAs, stating that not only should they receive ward funds, but they should also be directly funded from the national budget. This, he believes, will enhance their effectiveness in planning the county governments. He pointed out that the overreliance on governors for funding limits the MCAs’ ability to deliver on their duties, including their oversight over county organs. According to him, this leads to a situation where MCAs have to beg and praise governors in order to survive.
The proposal by Mukunji aligns with Article 207 of the constitution, which mandates Members of County Assemblies to oversee the budget and expenditure of the county government, as well as approve borrowing by the county government under Article 212 of the Constitution. Additionally, MCAs are responsible for vetting and approving nominees for appointment into county public offices, as well as organizing public forums for public participation on county government plans.
During the same seating, Members of Parliament passed the affordable housing bill by a simple majority, granting President Ruto a victory as he pushed for the bill to be passed. National Assembly speaker, Moses Wetangula, noted that the Bill concerns counties and will now proceed to the Senate for further consideration. However, Azimio Members of Parliament disagreed with the decision to pass the bill, claiming that their proposed amendments were rejected by the House. This led to them storming out of the assembly.
Suna East MP, Junet Mohamed, expressed disappointment over the rejection of their proposed amendments, stating that it appeared there were instructions from the government for the Bill to be passed without any amendments.
In summary, Mukunji’s proposal to transfer the funding for MCAs from the county government to the National government aims to enhance their autonomy and effectiveness in carrying out their duties. The proceedings in the National Assembly also saw the passing of the affordable housing bill, which was met with disagreement from some Members of Parliament. The dynamics of legislative processes and decision-making in the Kenyan parliament continue to be a subject of interest and debate.
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