A section of senators has assured county governments of their commitment to push for increased funding in the 2025/26 Division of Revenue Bill, vowing to stand firm on the Senate’s proposal to allocate counties Sh465 billion.

Led by Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi and Nairobi’s Edwin Sifuna, the lawmakers insisted they would not accept anything less in the ongoing mediation process between the National Assembly and the Senate. 

The mediation follows the National Assembly’s rejection of the Senate’s proposed increase from Sh405 billion, citing financial infeasibility.

With both Houses failing to agree, the bill now proceeds to a mediation committee as outlined in Article 113 of the Constitution.

“We have sent a capable team to the mediation talks, and we are confident they will not settle for less,” said Senator Sifuna.

Sifuna also called on Members of the National Assembly to support the Senate’s proposed allocation.

“MPs must soften their stand unless they want to be seen as fighting devolution. This revenue is meant to develop their own regions too,” he added.

The senators made the remarks in Vihiga on Wednesday, where Senator Osotsi delivered his inaugural State of the County Address at the Vihiga County Assembly Chambers. 

He was accompanied by Senators Sifuna, Okiya Omtatah (Busia), Agnes Kavindu (Machakos), Johnes Mwaruma (Taita Taveta), and nominated senators Beth Kalunda and Miraj Abdillahi.

In his address, Osotsi emphasised the need for stronger county governance, prudent use of resources, and equitable revenue sharing between the two levels of government.

He called on MPs to reason with the senators and help support devolution through fair revenue allocations.

“Some county functions, as currently implemented, cannot provide long-term solutions because they lack sufficient funds. That is why we are pushing for more allocation,” he stated.

The lawmakers reiterated their support for devolution, calling for actionable legislation to strengthen it.

Among the proposed laws was the Ward Development Fund Bill, 2025—co-sponsored by Osotsi and Kiambu Senator Karungo Paul Thangwa—which seeks to empower Members of the County Assembly and communities at the grassroots.

Osotsi also advocated for the financial autonomy of county assemblies from the executive to ensure effective oversight.

“Without financial independence, assemblies cannot effectively execute their oversight roles, as they will keep begging for funds from the executive,” Osotsi said.

In his address, Osotsi raised concerns over missed revenue targets, the employment of unqualified personnel in some county departments, and the slow upgrade of local markets such as Mbale, Majengo, Luanda, Serem, and Esibuye.

He urged Governor Wilber Ottichilo-led county government, under the oversight of MCAs, to prioritize infrastructure and market development to spur local economies.

On water provision, Osotsi noted that the Amatsi Water Services Company, which had previously been on the brink of collapse due to mismanagement, is now recovering following increased oversight.

“Senate oversight is not meant to punish county governments, but to ensure Kenyans receive the services they deserve,” he added. [Brian Kisanji]