Thika residents on Thursday approved the Kiambu county draft financial act 2015/16 after the county government gave them a chance to repeat the public participation exercise held in Thika town’s community hall.
The repeat was as a result of the previously foiled meting on Monday when the irate residents, who termed the draft act as a duplicate of the last years’ bill which they rejected and was barred by the court, turned chaotic.
Kiambu county chief of Staff Eng. Sammy Onyango, who was forced to intervene in the meeting after concerns that the county government had sent administrators only to push through the act, lauded the residents for their solidarity saying that it is their right to express their views.
He said that they are willing to work hand in hand with the local leaders on the grassroots to ensure the common 'mwananchi' gets what he deserves from the government.
“We are here because you gave us a chance to lead you and we are doing all we can to ensure the quality services get to you in the easiest way possible. You views are your rights and the MCAs have the task to implement what you have decided to be charged,” Onyango said.
The residents gave memoranda in writing after they sat down and agreed on the fees and payments they want to be charged by the county government.
The public suggested that the county government increases the licenses by 15% of the initial cost of licenses earlier which is set to be approved by the legislators before they return to the public for approval according to the constitution.