Mudavadi urges Governors to embrace self-reflection and fiscal responsibility

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has advocated for a more profound sense of self-reflection and fiscal responsibility among Governors and called for an urgent need for a transformative shift in leadership approaches.

The Prime CS emphasized the paramount significance of introspection and self-assessment within the realm of Governors and other leaders.

"If you are a Governor overseeing an administration, ask yourself whether you act as a facilitator or an obstructer," he said.

Acknowledging the transformative influence of devolution, Mudavadi emphasized that while significant progress has been made, challenges remain.

"While devolution has impacted our society tremendously, there are still some challenges; however, we need to focus more on budget institutions, pending bills, continuous capacity building, and better financial management," he noted.

He hailed the significant milestone of Kenya's 10-year journey with 47 devolved governments, marking a decade since the inception of devolution.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 10th Devolution Conference held at the Eldoret Sports Club in Uasin Gishu County, Mudavadi said the success story of devolution can only be equated to a "critical crown," encapsulating its essence in reshaping the nation's governance landscape.

"In the past decade, devolution has become the cornerstone of Kenya's governance model, empowering Kenyans and fostering localized solutions," he remarked, setting the tone for discussions during the conference.

The opening ceremony of the conference, graced by President William Ruto as its Chief Guest, saw a diverse array of attendees, including Council of Governors Chair Anne Waiguru, Senate Speaker Amos Kingi, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Gladys Boss and several other Governors.

US Ambassador Meg Whitman, who delivered a speech centered on the profound influence of devolution over the past ten years, was also among diplomatic representatives in attendance.

Mudavadi observed that President Ruto's presence, along with the attendance of nearly half of his administration, underscores the government's unwavering commitment to devolution and its profound effects on governance, development, and the synergy between national and county governments highlighting devolution as a central pillar of Kenya's democratic evolution.

“Your being here has significance and demonstrates your unwavering support for devolution,” said Mudavadi.

Under the theme 'A Decade of Devolution: Towards a Brighter Future,' the conference commemorates the journey and illuminates the trajectory ahead.

The Prime CS said the Devolution Conference is a celebration because devolution has transcended from being a mere concept to tangible practice geared towards shaping and empowering all Kenyans to take an active role in the nation's development.