Kisumu Deputy Governor Ruth Odinga has accused the national government of frustrating devolution in counties by delaying disbursement of funds.
Odinga decried the delays of fund disbursement by the national treasury, which has she said has slowed the implementation of development projects.
She said the treasury has never, for two years, disbursed funds to counties as provided in the disbursement schedule, a move he said has left counties in a difficult position.
Odinga said crisis is looming in counties over lack of funds meant for September, October and November respectively.
Addressing the press on Friday in Kisumu town, she said Kisumu County has only received funds for July and August, which largely goes to salaries.
She accused the government of ignoring the cash disbursement schedule approved by the Senate in September last year, adding that the schedule stipulates that the disbursement of county funds should be made on a monthly basis and not later than 15th.
She blamed treasury officials for failing to disburse funds on time even after they pledged subsequent disbursement will be within the required time frame.
“The electorates are on our throat demanding development yet the national government is sitting pretty on funds meant for counties,” she said.
She said funds given to counties are not enough to implement mega projects, adding that most of the money goes to salaries.
“Residents should be little patient with us and not be too quick to criticise us on non-performance,” she added.