In Kenya, the promise of devolution was a bold vision—a strategy to bring governance closer to the people, reduce inequality, and ensure that development reached every corner of the nation. But over a decade since its implementation, many are asking: has devolution truly delivered, or has it simply decentralized corruption?
Hon. Peter Kaluma, the Member of Parliament, Homa Bay Town Constituency on his X account has sparked national debate with a pointed statement on the state of governance at the county level.
His remarks reflect a growing frustration felt by millions of Kenyans: while citizens are taxed heavily—often to the bone—those entrusted with public resources are looting with impunity.
“Billions are collected from hardworking Kenyans and should be fueling national growth,” Kaluma observed, “but the funds rarely make it to the National Treasury in full. But instead, they’re intercepted and misused at various levels before they can serve their intended purpose.”
What’s more alarming is the behavior of county administrations. Despite receiving trillions from the National Treasury, governors and county officials often cry foul at any sign of delaydelay.
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The outcry, however, rarely stems from genuine concern for service delivery. In Kaluma’s words, “They steal all!” And now, he claims, these same officials are eyeing the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) and Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) resources to further their plunder.
Kaluma doesn’t mince words: “Devolution is a noble idea targeting equity in development; but governors are thieves!” His call to action is equally bold. He urges the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to move swiftly and decisively—“arrest and prosecute 90% of the governors,” he says, “spare none!”
The challenge now lies with oversight institutions. Will the EACC take bold steps to restore public trust, or will corruption continue to undermine one of the most transformative ideas in our constitution?
Devolution was never meant to be a feeding trough for a few—it was designed to uplift the many. The time has come for accountability to match ambition. Only then can Kenya realize the full potential of devolution.
What is your take on Hon. Kaluma’s observation. Leave as a comment below.
