By Faith Nyabuto
Members of the National and County Assemblies convened Tuesday to deliberate on a proposed constitutional amendment bill aimed at anchoring three critical financial laws into the Constitution.
The laws are: the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF), the Senate Oversight Fund (SOF), and the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF).
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The bill, which has already been passed by the National Assembly, seeks to formalize these funds to enhance service delivery and strengthen legislative oversight.
Speaking at a media briefing in Nairobi, lawmakers emphasized the need for adequate funding to enable them to serve their constituents effectively.
“NG-CDF goes directly to the people. It supports the construction of essential social amenities such as hospitals, schools, chief’s camps, roads, and bursaries, all under public oversight,” said Makueni Senator Daniel Maanzo.
He further urged citizens to consider a referendum to amend the bill before it proceeds to the President, ensuring full compliance with the Constitution.
Tetu MP Geoffrey Wandeto echoed the call for fairness in resource allocation, emphasizing that constituencies should reflect the will of the people rather than serve merely as administrative units.
“A constituency should be a representation of the people—not just a center for service delivery,” Wandeto stated.
“A referendum is the most democratic way to amend bills without altering the core structure of the Constitution.”
Bomet Senator Hillary Sigei underscored the importance of the CDF in grassroots development and highlighted the proposed Senate Oversight Fund as a tool to empower the Senate’s legislative and budgetary functions.
“The National Assembly is exploring mechanisms to ensure these funds continue to serve the people effectively,” Sigei said.
“The proposal, backed by both the Majority and Minority Leaders, aims to enhance the Senate’s role in legislation, budget allocation, and revenue sharing.”
He encouraged leaders to engage their communities, identify priority projects, and align development efforts with local needs.
Fred Okang’o, a communications consultant, emphasized the transformative power of these funds, particularly in rural areas.
“Funds must be constitutionally protected to ensure they reach the people who need them most, especially those in the villages,” Okang’o said.
“Legislators must represent their constituents’ interests, address their concerns, and empower them to participate in decision-making.”
He also called for stronger oversight mechanisms, including increased county allocations, improved procurement transparency, and accountability for governors implicated in corruption.
