Kisumu MCAs have shown mixed reactions over the Council of Governors' call for a referendum aimed at increasing the allocation of funds to the counties.
Minority leader Edwin Anayo has strongly opposed the governors' move and has gone ahead to ask the county chiefs to account for whatever they have been able to achieve with the current budgetary allocation before demanding for more cash.
“The governors cannot account for the current 15 percent given to them," he said.
"How can they convince Kenyans and the National Treasury to increase the funds given to counties yet they have not been able to put the 15 percent to proper use?” asked Anayo.
He questioned the move, saying that recently county governments returned unused money to the National Treasury.
He told our reporter yesterday on phone that the governors will not achieve the 45 percent budget allocation to counties.
“Referendum to increase funds coming to counties is a waste of time.
"Let governors be serious with county projects and aim at developing their respective counties before asking for more cash.”
Anayo’s sentiments were supported the speaker’s panel member Samuel Ombogo who said the governors’ move is a waste of time and money.
Nyalenda ‘B’ ward representative James Were, however, supported the move saying that a lot can be done in the counties if more money is devolved.
“More capital projects will be realised at the grass root level if we have more cash in our counties hence the move by governors is timely," said Were.
His nominated counterpart, Lydia Odhiambo, supported the move but insisted that transparency and accountability be the centre of the referendum.
“Key areas of concern in the counties will be realised if more money is allocated to counties.
"I do not see the reason why the national government is against the move which is aimed at helping Kenyans at the grass root levels.”