- Uptake of funds has been too low, MCAs said.
- MCAs should be able to summon all executives to answer any questions and ensure there is no diversion or wastage.
Image: BY MATHEWS NDANYI
Elgeyo Marakwet has amended its standing orders to allow MCAs to summon and question Governor Wisley Rotich’s executives in development and accountability.
The legislators MCAs amended the Standing Orders to ensure they effectively play their oversight role, especially concerning money allocated for development projects.
The MCAs want the executives appointed by Governor Rotich to periodically appear before them and explain use of public funds.
Deputy Speaker of the assembly Paul Kipyatich who is also MCA for Embobut-Embolot ward, termed amendment of the standing orders as a move to strengthen the role of the assembly and devolution.
“As it’s done in the National Assembly, our regulations will now enable us to get full reports on how money we allocate for projects and activities is utilised,” Kipyatich said.
He said in many cases there had been low absorption of funds allocated for projects, causing residents to blame MCAs, yet it’s the county executives who have the mandate to implement projects.
“MCAs usually take the blame, yet our role is oversight and not implementation,” Kipyatich said.
He said the periodic reports to be presented by the county executives would also be used to asses their work in helping Governor Rotich implement his development agenda.
“As MCAs we will be keener on value for money because all public funds allocated must be used well for intended projects and activities to benefit residents of Elgeyo Marakwet,” Kipyatich said.
He said the county executives would be required to provide all documentary evidence on use of public funds in their departments and also show the levels of project implementation within set periods.
“As MCAs, we are the ones who approve the county budget and allocate money for activities, hence, it’s only fair to residents that we follow up on how the same money is, he said.
The county has been disbursing development money through to the Elgeyo Marakwet County Equitable Development Act, which ensures all wards in the region share part of the county budget annually.
Projects are implemented in all wards through public participation, which helps residents to prioritise their needs.
Governor Rotich has been rolling out projects mainly in agriculture, healthcare, water and education to help transform lives.
“We are working to ensure that as a county we have many projects to enhance the fight against poverty. We have to create wealth for our people through incoming-generating activities,” Rotich said.