Nyandarua Governor Francis Kimemia has thrown his weight behind the push to have Senators pass the revenue formula, saying activities in devolved units had stalled.
Kimemia called on the committee appointed to look into the revenue sharing formula and give a way forward, saying there was a need to divide the national funds equally among all Kenyans before seeking other sources for an equalization fund.
“Don’t play politics with that formula, be patriotic and of one mind. Be guided by the national interests and not politics and tribal inclinations as we need the money to be released with immediate effect,” remarked Kimemia.
The governor, who doubles up as the chair to the Central Region Economic Block, called on the senators to take at least one week to clear the issue as operations including road construction, salaries and other operations in counties had stalled for lack of funds.
The urged the committee to embrace equity saying Nyandarua, which has a population of approximately 638,000, received an equivalent of a meagre Shs.6,000 whereas other counties enjoyed up to Shs.20,000 per person.
“Money is raised by the people and money must go back to the people. We can create an equalization fund and grants for the marginalized counties to support them gain socio-economic development.
“We cannot stall the flow of funds to the devolved units just because we are selfish and don’t want to see anyone else benefit, all Kenyans should know they are getting a flat rate amount across the country before the rest is used to equalize the marginalized,” said Kimemia.
His sentiments were backed by Nakuru Deputy Governor Dr. Erick Korir, who added that the earlier formula was skewed and populated regions did not get what was commensurate to the needs.
Korir said a per capita income of about Shs. 5,000 for the populous counties was not enough to meet the peoples’ basic necessities. He urged the Senate Committee to correct the earlier formula that provided gaps.
Kimemia spoke at Ol Kalau Railway Station when he graced the launch of the rehabilitaton of the Gilgil-Nyahururu Metre Gauge Railway Line. He was accompanied by Nakuru Deputy Governor Dr. Erick Korir and Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip Mainga.
By Anne Sabuni
