Senators are advocating for counties to receive Sh465 billion as their equitable share of revenue in the upcoming financial year, a move likely to spark yet another battle with the national government.
The push for increased county funding comes amid growing concerns over inadequate resources for devolved functions, with governors arguing that the current allocations are insufficient to meet service delivery demands.
The proposed amount marks a significant increase from previous disbursements, reflecting the rising costs of governance and development at the county level.
However, the national government has consistently resisted such increments, citing revenue shortfalls and competing national priorities.
Treasury officials argue that the country’s fiscal position requires prudent spending and warn that increasing county allocations could strain the national budget.
Senators, on the other hand, maintain that counties require more funding to deliver healthcare, infrastructure, and other essential services.
They insist that the Constitution guarantees counties a fair share of revenue and that underfunding them undermines devolution.
The debate over revenue allocation has been a recurring source of friction between the two levels of government, often leading to prolonged negotiations and legal battles.
If the Senate’s proposal stands, it will likely trigger another round of discussions with the National Assembly and the Executive.
As the budget-making process unfolds, stakeholders will be keen to see whether counties will secure the Sh465 billion they seek or if a compromise will be reached to balance national and devolved government interests.
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