Nyamira residents have challenged the state to initiate a bill that will specify academic qualifications for politicians holding various elective offices especially ward representatives.
According to them, the move will ensure efficiency in terms of oversight, legislation and representation with integrity that has been a point of discussion in the recent past.
They cited under qualification of many MCAs as a reason why many counties were experiencing squabbles constantly, with development given little focus.
On Wednesday, the youths from Kitutu Masaba said devolution was at an infantry stage hence it needed learned people who can legislate.
“The state should come with a Bill that will seek to raise academic qualifications for MCAs given their significant role in implementing devolution. We are seeing slow progress since many of them do not understand their role due to low academic standards,” said Dan Momanyi.
“If you carry out an assessment, you will find that many counties are struggling to pick in terms of development due to reluctance of this individuals to do their job. However, most of them are not adequately learned,” said Victor Nyanumba.
Under the current law, the minimum qualification of a county representative and a Member of Parliament is a form four certificate.
They proposed a bachelors’ degree from a recognized institution as a minimum qualification for both MCAs and Members of Parliament.
“If all ward reps acquire relevant degree from a recognized institution of higher learning. The same should be applied to MPs because their roles are similar and needs very high academic qualification,” Momanyi said.
End.