- He said that the campaign would reverse gains made in the equitable distribution of resources to all Kenyan citizens.
- He said the country is one and would be fair if all Kenyans enjoyed equal shares.
Image: SHABAN OMAR
Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has strongly criticised the one man, one vote, one shilling county revenue share push.
Mvurya described the move as retrogressive and divisive, saying it would stifle development in some counties, especially the growth of the coastal region.
The CS made the remarks on Saturday at the Mwandamo in Msambweni, Kwale County, in commemoration of World Oceans Day.
He said that the campaign would reverse gains made in the equitable distribution of resources to all Kenyan citizens.
"The one man, one vote, one shilling mantra is impractical and should not be encouraged because it denies other countries an equal opportunity to develop," he said.
Mvurya said the campaign is set to cripple the effectiveness of devolution which played a key role in development.
The CS said that devolution promoted the growth of previously marginalised counties and that the one man, one shilling vote would impede progress in the country's unpopulated areas.
He said the country is one and would be fair if all Kenyans enjoyed equal shares.
The CS said as leaders they highly discourage unfairness in the distribution of national resources.
He said that as leaders, they want development to reach every corner of the country benefiting everyone.
Mvurya said the formula should be brought up for national dialogue and be discussed exhaustively.
He said it is inappropriate for some leaders to wake up and come up with ideas that are likely to hurt Kenyans and their development.
The CS said President William Ruto is working hard to improve and develop the lives of all citizens.
He said the one man, one shilling undermines the country's effort to realise standard development and equal services to Kenyans.
"We have seen our President travel to America to improve our development standards and this revenue formula will hold us back," he said.
Mvurya said the government has implemented measures to fully exploit the blue economy sector.
He said the national government looks forward to improving landing sites from Lamu to the Vanga seascape and capacity-building youth on fisheries and the blue economy.
Mvurya said his ministry will soon launch a youth programme dubbed 'Vijana na Bahari' where 600 youth from the coastal counties will receive free training on making life jackets and other equipment.
He said the programme intends to enhance skills and provide employment to the youth.
Mvurya also noted that the national government is planning to distribute 150 boats to the local fisherfolks to promote fishing activities and livelihoods.