Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o has expressed strong criticism toward the national government, accusing it of frustrating the devolution process by holding onto responsibilities that, under the Constitution, belong to county governments—particularly in infrastructure development.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Governor Nyong’o questioned the continued operation of the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) and the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KERRA), arguing that their roles duplicate county functions and contradict the principles laid out in the 2010 Constitution.
Highlighting the county governments' successful management of healthcare, Nyong’o wondered why the national government insists on controlling road funding, a responsibility he believes counties could handle more effectively.
“If the government is genuinely committed to devolution, there would be no need for KURA or KERRA,” Nyong’o asserted. “Counties have demonstrated efficiency in healthcare—unlike the national government, which struggles even with Kenyatta National Hospital.”
He further criticized President William Ruto’s administration for what he described as an attempt to reverse the gains of devolution and revert to centralized governance models reminiscent of previous regimes.
“The current regime seems intent on rolling back the advances made since 2010, which is deeply concerning,” Nyong’o said. “This reversal risks not only weakening devolution but also undermining the foundations of a democratic and developmental state.”
Calling for unity, Nyong’o urged the Council of Governors and reform-minded leaders to remain vigilant and protect the milestones achieved through Kenya’s Second Liberation.
“The Council of Governors must be proactive in defending these achievements. We must not allow this administration to dismantle the progress we’ve made,” he emphasized.
His comments arrive amid an escalating dispute between county leaders and the national government over control of the Road Maintenance Levy Fund (RMLF). The contention grew after President Ruto requested Parliament’s approval to oversee the fund’s allocation directly.
