Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi has accused President William Ruto of interfering with county governments by taking over their core functions. He warned that this centralisation undermines Kenya’s constitutional devolution system and weakens local governments’ ability to deliver essential services effectively.
Speaking during a media interview, Mwangangi alleged that the national government has encroached on devolved sectors such as agriculture, water management, and road construction. He argued that this has left counties sidelined, unable to perform their roles as mandated by the Constitution.
The deputy governor lamented that dispensaries in various counties are struggling without adequate medical supplies, while many staff members remain unpaid for months. He blamed delayed fund transfers from the Treasury, saying this negligence cripples counties’ capacity to serve their people.
Mwangangi revealed that county allocations sometimes take over four months before being released by the national government. He questioned how essential devolved services like healthcare and infrastructure can run smoothly under such delays, calling it an intentional strategy to frustrate local administrations.
He stressed that Kenya’s 2010 Constitution must be respected and devolution protected. According to him, concentrating power in the presidency undermines democratic principles and prevents citizens from enjoying the benefits of localised governance that devolution was designed to provide.
The deputy governor also criticised the ruling UDA party, accusing it of trying to buy off regional leaders. He said this political interference weakens accountability and threatens the independence of county leadership, leaving citizens with unmet promises and poor governance.
He further faulted the government’s approach to compensating victims of abductions and killings. According to him, paying families without first conducting credible investigations is irresponsible, arguing that such actions mask accountability and deny justice to the affected communities.
Mwangangi urged the administration to stop overstepping constitutional boundaries and allow counties to operate independently. He emphasised that devolution was meant to bring services closer to citizens, warning that the current overreach risks eroding public trust in government.
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