NG-CDF is here to stay, Wetang’ula declares amid Raila’s push for its abolishment
He noted that although the courts had at one time declared the fund unconstitutional, Parliament amended the law to firmly anchor it within the Constitution
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has defended the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), emphasising its critical contribution in progressive development at the grassroot and national levels despite calls by ODM Leader Raila Odinga for its abolishment.
Speaking on Friday during the official launch of a newly constructed tuition block at St Veronica Ranje R.C. Comprehensive School in Kanduyi Constituency, Wetang’ula, who was the chief guest, said the fund had, over the past two decades, transformed the education sector by providing dignified learning spaces and improving the delivery of quality education.
“NG-CDF has been a game-changer. When I first entered Parliament, it did not exist, but since its introduction, it has funded projects that have significantly changed the lives of our people. Even after I retired as a Member of Parliament, it remained in place and it is still here today,” he said.
Wetang’ula noted that although the courts had at one time declared the fund unconstitutional, Parliament amended the law to firmly anchor it within the Constitution.
He hailed the Court of Appeal for upholding its legality, describing the decision as a victory for grassroots development.
“Prudent use of public funds is best demonstrated through NG-CDF projects. Across the country, if you walk into any village, the most visible projects be they classrooms, laboratories, or health facilities have been funded through NG-CDF,” Wetang’ula said.
The new block at the school comprises 12 modern classrooms and fully equipped administration offices.
Wetang’ula commended Kanduyi NG-CDF for investing in infrastructure that supports both learners and teachers.
“When we took a Bill to entrench NG-CDF in the Constitution, it received 90 per cent approval in Parliament. This is because Kenyans everywhere recognise its impact and value,” he added.
Kanduyi MP John Makali, who was the host, also lauded the NG-CDF, saying its projects remain the most visible form of grassroots development compared to those initiated by county governments.
Makali said the fund has consistently delivered tangible benefits to communities, particularly in the education sector.
“Unlike many county projects, NG-CDF investments are evident across the country from classrooms and laboratories to health facilities. It is a model of development that people can see and appreciate,” he said.
Webuye East MP Martin Pepela similarly echoed the sentiments, praising the prudent utilisation of the fund to improve the lives of learners.
He criticised those pushing for the fund’s abolition or transfer to county governments, saying such proposals were out of touch with the realities on the ground.
“We support NG-CDF, and to those suggesting it should be reverted to counties, I say, call for a referendum and ask Kenyans if they want it scrapped. The answer will be clear,” Pepela noted .
He added that the fund had played a critical role in equipping schools and creating an environment where teachers could effectively impart knowledge to learners.
The leaders remarks came a day after ODM leader Raila Odinga renewed his call for the abolishment of both the NG-CDF and the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), which is overseen by Woman Reps, saying the funds should be channeled to county governments to enhance efficiency, strengthen devolution, and improve service delivery.
Raila, who was addressing the 9th Devolution Conference in Homa Bay on Thursday, said the concept of CDF came up when Kenyans were seeking a solution of addressing the starving of some regions of funds under an “imperial presidency”, which saw Kenyans resort to harambees to build schools or dispensaries, which is no longer the case.
“But the system has since changed. We removed the patronage model, adopted devolution, created a constitutional commission to allocate resources, and empowered Parliament on budgetary matters. In this new order, CDF is obsolete,” the former Prime Minister said.
He added that MPs should stick to their constitutional mandate of representing the people, legislating and oversighting the national government.
