Senate Committee on delegated legislation commends Kilifi on legal compliance, urges benchmarking

Senate Committee on delegated legislation commends Kilifi on legal compliance, urges benchmarking

𝐊𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐢 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲
𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟑𝟎𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

The Senate Committee on Delegated Legislation has urged the County Government of Kilifi to continue upholding legal frameworks essential for the effective and transparent operation of county affairs.

Speaking on the third day of its oversight tour of four Counties in the Coast region, the Committee, led by Chairperson Senator Mwenda Gataya (Tharaka Nithi), held consultative meetings with Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro and Members of the County Assembly (MCAs). The discussions, which were both detailed and robust centered around the implementation of regulations, adherence to laws and the general functioning of devolved units.

Governor Mung’aro assured the Committee that his administration is committed to full compliance with all legal requirements. “We understand the importance of following the law in everything we do,” said the Governor. “We also appreciate the critical role played by the County Assembly as the representatives of the people, which is why we involve them from the start to the end in the regulation making process.”

The Committee applauded the County Government of Kilifi for its efforts, describing it as a model of legal compliance in the management of county affairs. Senator Gataya lauded the Governor’s leadership, calling on other counties to learn from Kilifi’s approach.

“As a Committee, we are truly impressed with what is happening in Kilifi. The county has demonstrated commendable commitment in the formulation and implementation of regulations,” he noted. “We urge other County Executives to benchmark with Kilifi County and ensure their operations are also legally sound.”

However, the Committee advised the Governor and his team to ensure thorough documentation of all public participation activities. Proper records, the Committee warned, are vital to prevent potential legal disputes.

In a separate session with Kilifi MCAs, the Committee reiterated the importance of their oversight and legislative roles. Senators encouraged them to remain vigilant and proactive in monitoring the Executive and enacting laws that serve the public interest.

The MCAs, while appreciating the Committee's visit, called for enhanced capacity building programmes to equip county legislators with the skills necessary to execute their mandates effectively. The Senators agreed to advocate for Senate support in this area, pledging their commitment to strengthening Devolution through empowered County Assemblies.

The Committee’s coastal tour will conclude on Friday with a visit to Tana River County.

Among the Senators present were Chairperson Mwenda Gataya (Tharaka Nithi), Vice Chair Danson Mungatana (Tana River), Issa Juma Boy (Kwale), Julius Murgor (West Pokot), Betty Montet, Joyce Korir and Daniel Maanzo (Makueni).