The Deputy president Rigathi Gachagua has today chaired the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Budget and Economic Council (IBEC), at his official Residence in Karen bringing together the leadership of county governments under the Council of Governors (CoG).
The DP called for synergy between the national and county governments in order to ensure seamlessness in articulating government and development agenda for the country.
The meeting attended by several leaders deliberated on a myriad of issues, key among them the issue of pending bills which has proved to be recurrent.
CoG sought intervention on ways of sorting out pending bills in their respective counties.
“Pending bills were defined as valid invoices properly delivered and are outstanding at the end of a financial year. Ineligible pending bills cannot be expunged from pending Bills until the proposed committee sits and makes the decision. Governors are given liberty to verify their bills and make payment plans on the verified bills within two weeks. An additional week will be designated for engagement and negotiation between the counties and the Controller (COB) to reach a mutual agreement on pertinent issues. However, the expansive counties shall be given a longer period.” The DP noted.
The county leadership also raised issues on the criteria used to identify beneficiaries of the equalization fund urging for a review of the same to accommodate some counties which were left out.
“Equalization Fund appropriation bill 2023 is before parliament for consideration. The regulations are now in operation. The Equalization fund and CRA will meet to undertake a holistic approach on the manner in which marginalised counties were identified. There are some areas with similar climatic challenges.” Said the DP.
Gachagua reiterated the need for regular consultations between the national government and county governments on various functions terming it key for seamless delivery of services.
“The new policy of continuous engagement in the Ruto administration continues. The two governments are one. We serve one people and we encourage cooperation on all fronts.” The DP added.
The meeting also proposed a sustainable manner and coordinated approach of exploitation of minerals in the country.
