[Senate Majority Leader Kithure Kindiki. He has called for more funding to counties. Courtesy: The Star]
The Senate has vowed to continue its push for more funding to the counties, in a move that could see the devolved units allocated Sh29 billion more than the amount proposed by the National Assembly.
Speaking on Monday, Senate Majority Leader Kithure Kindiki vowed to ensure that counties get more allocation during the next financial year, warning that the Senate will not allow another version of the Division of Revenue Bill that reduces funding to the counties.
“Last time, our position was very clear on what amount we thought was adequate and equitable for sharing between the two levels of government. We can’t force the assembly to agree to a certain figure,” the lawmaker said.
“But, of course, when the Bill comes to us, on the counties getting an allocation that can help them to perform their functions within the law, that is the function of the Senate," he added.
The Tharaka Nithi senator observed that counties must be allocated enough resources to perform their duties effectively.
The Senate wants funds allocated to counties increased from Sh323 billion to Sh353 billion.