Uasin Gishu County Assembly Speaker David Kiplagat address the press in Eldoret town on Wednesday, October 18, 2017. [Photo: Elvanis Ronoh]
Uasin Gishu County Assembly Speaker David Kiplagat has urged residents to embrace public participation.
He said this helps in planning projects that could be given first priority and also enhance transparency and accountability.
"It is sad that when people are called for a public participation forum they don't turn up, yet they are first ones to complain that they are being marginalised," he said in Eldoret town, Wednesday.
"No project can be started without public participation since it's is our legal obligation to make information public and also engage citizens in planning on how their money will be used," he added.
He reiterated that for devolution to prosper, public participation should be embraced in decision making.
“County leaders must listen more to the citizens and ensure their needs and concerns are reflected in all local development initiatives instead of playing it alone,” noted Kiplagat.
"If residents offer their opinions, input and concerns as we enact laws would enhance acceptance among citizens, and avoid unnecessary public outcry," he added.