All set for swearing-in of governors

City council workers decorate Uhuru Park in readiness for swearing-in of Nairobi Governor-elect

By Roselyne Obala

Nairobi, Kenya: It is all systems go for today’s landmark swearing-in of governors-elect, as the devolved system of government takes root. 

But the governors do not have the luxury of celebrating their win. Once they officially assume office, Kenyans will be looking up to them to deliver on their campaign promises.

The stakes are high and since they are the first in Kenyan history, their post is viewed as the solution to all the problems that have been ailing every county.

After today, Kenyans will begin enjoying the fruits of the new Constitution that they overwhelmingly passed in 2010 to have devolution place, which is embedded in Chapter Eleven.

However, the governor’s job has been cut out and they must embark on the real task of improving the fortunes of their counties. The Transition Authority (TA) affirms that everything is in place for a smooth transfer to counties. 

The 47 County Governments take over the functions of the 174 defunct local authorities countrywide. TA Chairman Kinuthia Wamwangi admits that the work ahead is enormous and will require the best expertise.

Though governors will be inheriting some of these local authorities with debts, they will be tasked with constituting an 11-member executive committee to operationalise the devolved governments.

Policy compliance

The governors will also be required to constitute a County Public Service Board that will vet, hire and second staff to the devolved governments. Mr Wamwangi stated that the governors would be required to set up management boards to undertake the operations in urban areas and cities that will last five years.

“The boards shall impose such fees, levies and charges as may be authorised by the County Government for delivery of services, ensure the implementation and compliance with policies formulated by both the national and County Government,” he explained as per the Urban and Cities Act.

In Nairobi, preparation is at an advanced stage for the swearing-in of governor-elect Evans Kidero and his deputy Jonathan Mueke at Uhuru Park.

The exercise will be presided over by Justice Msagha Mbogoli today. Among the invited guests are top Government officials, dignitaries, and friends. Dr Kidero has also organised the governor’s dinner this evening.