Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) have rejected a proposal by the Senate to extend its oversight powers to cover locally generated county revenue. They say the move undermines devolution and the constitutional role of assemblies.
The debate took place on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, during a Senate stakeholder retreat in Kiambu. The meeting was organized by the Justice, Legal Affairs and Human Rights Committee to collect views on the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, 2025.
Senate Seeks More Oversight
The amendment proposes giving the Senate authority not only over national revenue allocated to counties under Article 96, but also over revenue raised locally. MCAs, however, insist that this would upset the principle of separation of powers.
Nairobi MCA James Kariuki was clear:
“Assemblies are the rightful watchdogs of county-generated revenue, and we cannot cede that responsibility to the Senate.”
County Assemblies Defend Their Role
The County Assemblies Forum (CAF) also opposed the proposal. Chairperson Hon. Seth Kamanza warned it would create conflict between the two institutions.
“Oversight of funds raised within the county is the primary and constitutional duty of the County Assembly. This amendment would roll back the gains of devolution,” Kamanza said.
Support for County Assembly Fund
While rejecting Senate’s expanded oversight, MCAs supported another part of the Bill. Article 199A proposes the creation of a County Assembly Fund in all 47 counties.
The fund would cover administrative costs and legislative functions, with allocations drawn directly from the County Revenue Fund.
Kamanza welcomed the move, saying it would secure the financial independence of assemblies.
“By securing our funding, assemblies can carry out their mandates without interference from county executives.”
What Next?
The Senate committee will now compile feedback from counties and present a final report to the House.
