Opposition leader Raila Odinga is scheduled to appear before the Senate today at 10 a.m. to present his views on the proposed revenue-sharing formula that will guide the distribution of funds among Kenya’s 47 devolved units for the next five years.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader is expected to make his remarks from the Senate Chamber, where a special podium has already been prepared for his address. This rare appearance comes at a critical time as senators deliberate on a contentious revenue-sharing framework.
Currently, members of the Senate are being taken through the proposed formula by the House Finance and Budget Committee, which is chaired by Mandera Senator Ali Roba. The committee had earlier scrutinized a framework proposed by the Commission on Revenue Allocation (CRA) but tabled a report with notable differences from the CRA’s recommendations.
The debate over how to fairly distribute revenue among counties has been a recurring challenge since the advent of devolution. The new formula under discussion will replace the existing one and remain in effect for the next five years. It seeks to address longstanding concerns over equity, population disparities, and the need for development in marginalized regions.
Two weeks ago, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi suspended debate on the proposed formula to allow senators ample time to fully understand the different frameworks presented. The move was intended to avoid a rushed decision and foster consensus among lawmakers.
Raila’s appearance is seen as an effort to influence the discussion and offer political guidance on a matter of national importance. With his long-standing support for devolution and equitable resource distribution, his input is expected to weigh heavily on the final decision by the Senate.
The outcome of this debate will be critical in determining how counties manage their development agendas, healthcare systems, infrastructure, and other essential services over the next half-decade. As stakeholders await Raila’s submission, the focus now shifts to how his views may shape the Senate’s deliberations and the final adoption of the revenue-sharing formula.
