Hello, Millenials Readers,   

Over the last month, we have witnessed a circus show in Meru. Members of the county assembly, also known as MCAs, have had several run-ins with newly elected Governor Mwangaza. We saw them walk out of their swearing-in ceremony, claiming that she was not listening and was using force to run the county. These ups and downs have been going on for a while, and I believe something is happening behind the scenes that are causing these conflicts between MCAs and governors.

One of the most exciting recent events was the rejection of 7 of 10 nominees for the County Executive Committee (CEC) by the Governor for vetting. I will briefly summarize the roles of the MCAs as stipulated in the county to understand the deep waters the Governor is in if she does not reconcile with her MCAs as soon as possible. 

Prior to the 2010 constitution amendment, the position of ward representative was not considered highly lucrative. They were referred to a councillor and met in the county council during this time. However, devolution increased their power in the 47 devolved government units, and they now serve as representatives in county assemblies. Unlike in the past, even master’s degree holders are now competing for the position, as in the Meru County Government, which includes the most learned members.

Maintain close contact with the Electorate

The first crucial duty is to make sure they maintain close communication with the electorate, also known as “Watu Kwa Ground,” or “people at the grassroots levels.”  They ought to be the ones who consult with them about their various problems. This isn’t always the case, though, as they frequently vanish for five years before reappearing when they once again require votes. They should also be readily available for the people. Some are known for appearing during funerals and hardly in their offices for consultations.

Present ideas, Opinions, and Proposals of the Electorate in the County Assembly

The MCAs have been elected to represent the people as the smallest unit of the government. Thus, they must fight for the people in the county government. The people’s wishes may differ, but MCAs must put the people’s priorities first. Sadly, you have heard rumours that some go there to sleep. 

Attend County Assembly Sessions and Committees Meetings

They are required to attend these sessions in order to represent the people’s views and issues. 

Moreover, they need to participate in the committee meeting, which is the county government’s most crucial area where real business is done. It is during such sessions that they can present people’s problems and opinions.

Sadly, most of our MCAs go to these committee meetings to ensure they secure the lucrative seating allowances.

Other roles

They also link the county assembly and the electorate on public service delivery and extend professional knowledge, experience, or specialized knowledge to any issue for discussion in the county assembly.

However, as a County Assembly, which comprises the elected and nominated MCAs in the county, more powers are given by the Constitution, according to a summary provided by Kakamega County Government:

  • Vet and approve a nominee for appointment to county public offices as may be provided for in ACT or any other Law.
  •  Perform the roles set out under Article 185 of the Constitution.
  • Approve the budget and expenditure of the county government following Article 207 of the Constitution.
  • Legislation as contemplated in Article 220 (2) Constitution, guided by Articles 201 and 203 of the Constitution.
  •  Approve the borrowing by the county government following Article 212 of the Constitution.
  •  Approve County Development Plans.
  • Perform any other role as may be set out in the Constitution.

Given the above role of the MCAs and the County Assembly, it is clear that Governor Mwangaza will have a difficult time if she does not reconcile with her MCAs. She may not be able to carry out any government functions and may fail to deliver what she offered to do to the people of Meru. To the Millenials and Generation Z, we need to be aware of each leader’s roles to hold them accountable. 

Moreover, for those thinking of joining politics in the future, we need to be aware of such issues and avoid falling prey to the challenges the MERU Governor is currently facing.

Until Next Time

Fabian