The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has expressed concerns over the current devolution system in Kenya, which led to the creation of 47 counties.
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According to Mbadi, the current structure is unsustainable, particularly due to the ballooning wage bill and mismanagement of resources. He suggests that Kenya should revert to a smaller number of administrative units, either returning to the eight provinces from the previous Constitution or a maximum of 14.
Speaking during an appearance on Citizen TV’s JKLive show on Wednesday, Mbadi raised alarm about the growing costs associated with running the 47 counties. He emphasized that these devolved units have led to a bloated public sector with excessive administrative staff, contributing to inefficiency and financial strain on the government.
“You go to counties and you will find all kinds of staff, including directors for fishermen, boda bodas, music, and culture. These individuals are earning significant salaries, often with deputies, and the situation is exacerbated by the large number of people involved,” Mbadi remarked.
He further criticized the current system of governance, pointing out that each of the 47 counties operates like a mini-government, with a governor, a deputy, ministers, and numerous other officials. This, he argued, has led to a strained financial situation, especially in the face of a heavy wage bill.
The Treasury CS’s comments came in response to a question posed by show host Jeff Koinange, who asked if he would support a return to the original eight provinces under the former Constitution. Mbadi indicated that reducing the number of administrative units could help address the country’s financial challenges while ensuring that resources still reach the grassroots.
“I would go for a maximum of 14. There were eight provinces, but if you look at regions like Rift Valley and Eastern, they were essentially a combination of multiple provinces. I believe that 14 would strike a better balance, but even eight would still work well, as it would allow for effective devolution of resources without overburdening the system,” Mbadi explained.
He added that Kenya’s current administrative structure, which includes not just counties but also sub-counties and wards, has become too costly for the government to maintain. According to Mbadi, the national government is currently spending approximately Ksh.80 billion per month on salaries alone, totaling nearly Ksh.960 billion annually. Meanwhile, Kenya’s annual revenue collection stands at Ksh.2.5 trillion, with over Ksh.1.1 trillion of that going toward loan repayments.
Mbadi also reflected on Kenya’s previous system under the Majimbo Constitution, which had regional governments and fewer legislative subdivisions. He questioned whether the current system of devolution, with its high number of elected representatives, is what Kenyans truly needed.
“People should consider whether this type of devolution was what we envisioned. We wanted resources to be devolved, not an overextension of government. We have too many MCAs, and the push for gender inclusivity has led to more nominations, further swelling the ranks of our elected officials,” Mbadi said.
His remarks have sparked a renewed debate about Kenya’s system of governance and whether the current devolution framework is sustainable in the face of rising costs and financial challenges.
