Contrary to what the governors say, the county development board bill signed into law this week by the president does not usurp their power, nor does it undermine the mandate of the MCAs in any way. This law merely creates a consultative forum for all the leaders in the county to plan development projects. MPs, senator, MCA leaders, governor, county commission (representing national government depts), county secretary are among the key leaders in the board. Its key aim is to coordinate projects by the county, CDF, national govt, etc so that there is equitable distribution accross the county, and that there will be no duplication. The boards decisions are recommendations to the county and are not binding . The silver lining in this board is its potential to bring together the county leaders and bring about cohesion. Senators chair the board because they are the only members who do not manage any fund. The council of governors had initially okayed the bill only to turn around after the president assented to it. CIC and LSK had also agreed that the bill does not contravene the constitution, nor does it give senators any executive role in the county. It would appear that the governors simply prefer to run their own show and do not want to have input from informed leaders although they were also elected from the same county.
Posted on: Sat, 02 Aug 2014 21:07:13 +0000