Aasai

Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o has accused President William Ruto’s government of sabotaging devolution by clinging to key county functions, especially in the roads sector. Nyong’o criticized the continued existence of agencies like the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) and the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KERRA), saying they undermine the 2010 Constitution’s spirit of devolution.

Speaking on Tuesday, the governor said counties have shown they can manage crucial sectors like healthcare better than the national government, which struggles with facilities such as Kenyatta National Hospital. He argued that if devolution were fully respected, KURA and KERRA would no longer be necessary.

Nyong’o further warned that President Ruto’s bid to centralize development functions echoes the authoritarian style of past regimes. He cautioned that undermining devolution could derail Kenya’s efforts to build a democratic and developmental state.

The remarks come amid a heated battle over control of road funds, following Ruto’s plea to MPs and Senators to let him manage the Road Maintenance Levy Fund (RMLF). As tensions rise, Nyong’o has called on the Council of Governors and other pro-reform forces to resist any efforts to roll back devolution gains.