Prime CS Mudavadi urge governors to observe fiscal discipline
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has challenged governors to observe fiscal discipline and called for an urgent need for a transformative shift in leadership approaches in county governments.
Speaking during the official launch of the 2023 Devolution Conference in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu county today, Mudavadi emphasised the paramount significance of introspection and self-assessment within the realm of governors and other leaders.
“If you are a governor overseeing an administration, ask yourself whether you act as a facilitator or an obstructor.” Mudavadi said.
Mudavadi extended this imperative to leaders within the national government.
“This call for self-evaluation highlighted the power of facilitative leadership as a driving force for progress and development across all levels of governance.” He added.
While acknowledging the transformative influence of devolution, the Prime CS noted that while significant progress has been made, challenges remain.
“Devolution has impacted our society tremendously; there are still some challenges; however, we need to focus more on budget institutions, pending bills, continuous capacity building, and better financial management.” He said.
He hailed the significant milestone of Kenya’s 10-year journey with 47 devolved governments, marking a decade since the inception of devolution.
This is the 8th Devolution Conference to be held since inception of the devolved governments in 2013.
“In the past decade, devolution has become the cornerstone of Kenya’s governance model, empowering Kenyans and fostering localised solutions.” Mudavadi added.
The opening ceremony, graced by president William Ruto as its chief guest, saw a diverse array of attendees, including Governor Anne Waiguru of Kirinyaga County, who is also the chair of the Council of Governors, and several other governors.
Other notable dignitaries such as Senate Speaker Amos Kingi and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Glady Boss were also among the participants. The gathering further included several members of parliament and diplomatic representatives, notably the US Ambassador Meg Whitman, who delivered a speech centred on the profound influence of devolution over the past ten years
Under the theme “A Decade of Devolution: Towards a Brighter Future,” the conference not only commemorates the journey but also illuminates the trajectory ahead.
The PCS said that this 8th devolution conference is a celebration, because devolution has transcended from being a mere concept to tangible practice that is geared towards shaping and empowering all Kenyans to take an active role in the nation’s development.
