MCAs can only be able to execute their mandate of oversight on the county government executives if the Senate and National Assembly review the division of revenue allocation, a nominated senator has said.
Speaking on Thursday at Nyaronge primary school where she donated Sh100,000 that will be used to refurbish classrooms in the institution, Senator Janet Ongera asked parliament to empower MCAs by allocating them distinct kitty that they can use to hold committee meetings.
According to her, many departmental committees at the county level were not strong since they are subjected to county treasury to ask for money.
“Parliament must review the allocation of money to counties by allowing MCA to make the budget. If we cannot do that then we can as well disclose the amount of money that should go to county assemblies to support oversight functions,” she said.
Mrs Ong’era said many county governors have taken advantage of MCAs lacking necessary allocations to run departmental committees to compromise them.
“It is so sad that MCAs are lured to accepting or rejecting certain issues before the house by governors. This is because they are not independent at all because they have to rely on county executives for money,” she said.
Ong’era challenged MCAs to be patient by executing their roles of representation, legislation and oversight without compromise as the senate tries to reach their national assembly counterparts for an amicable solution.
“We should allocate money to county assemblies for them to perform specific roles and I urge MCAs to be a bit patient as we review the issue and I am ready to convince members over that matter,” she added.