Senators Petitioned to Amend Law Curbing Governors’ Powers

A petition has been presented to the Senate, urging amendments to the County Governments Act to address governance loopholes that grant county governors unchecked authority over appointments and dismissals. The petition, initiated by Ol'lessos Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) Isaian Maina from Nandi County, calls for changes to strengthen accountability and align county governance with the principles of devolution.

Maina argues that the current provisions in the County Governments Act (No. 17 of 2012) allow governors to dismiss County Executive Committee (CEC) members without oversight from the county assembly, undermining accountability and transparency. He emphasized that this lack of checks enables arbitrary executive actions, which weaken effective governance and collective responsibility within county administrations.

The petition, submitted to the Senate's Justice, Legal Affairs, and Human Rights Committee, proposes a consultative process requiring approval from at least 50 percent of county assembly members before a governor can dismiss a CEC member. Additionally, Maina advocates for explicit accountability mechanisms to ensure governors are answerable to the county assembly for the management of county resources.

The committee, chaired by Sessional Chair Senator Tom Ojienda, recognized the significance of the petition, noting that it addresses critical issues in county governance. The submission aims to restore order and transparency in county operations, with the committee stressing the need for a thorough examination of its constitutional and governance implications.

Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu praised the petition as a well-informed proposal, highlighting the value of insights from a county assembly member who has directly encountered the governance challenges outlined. The committee has planned a retreat to review the proposed amendments in detail and will present a report to the Senate within 60 days.

The petition underscores the ongoing push to refine devolution practices, ensuring county governments operate with greater accountability and adherence to the principles of good governance.