Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has come out strongly against the national government, accusing it of frustrating county operations through delays in disbursing funds and proposing an inequitable revenue-sharing formula.
Speaking in Ikolomani and Khwisero sub-counties, where he was overseeing the distribution of free maize seeds and fertilizer to farmers, Barasa expressed concern over the Treasury’s delay in releasing county allocations. The governor noted that counties are owed a total of Ksh 63 billion for February and March.
“These delays are paralyzing service delivery at the grassroots level. We cannot continue offering essential services or implement development projects if the funds are not released on time,” said Barasa, who also serves as the Chairperson of the Finance Committee at the Council of Governors.
Barasa said that all 47 counties are being affected and urged the National Treasury to act swiftly, warning that continued delay would stall operations in health, agriculture, and other key devolved functions.
He also criticized the proposed fourth formula for revenue allocation, which he claimed favors only 16 counties at the expense of the rest. According to Barasa, the new formula would result in unfair distribution of resources, worsening inequality across the country.
“This formula is discriminatory and must be rejected. As a member of the Council of Governors and a representative of the people of Kakamega, I fully support the third revenue-sharing formula which ensures fairness and inclusivity,” he said.
Barasa called on Senators to shoot down the fourth formula when it comes up for debate, urging them to consider the needs of all counties and not just a select few.
His remarks come amid rising concerns from county leaders who accuse the Kenya Kwanza administration of undermining devolution by failing to prioritize timely disbursement of funds. Several governors have echoed similar sentiments in recent weeks, claiming that the Treasury is playing politics with county resources.
The Kakamega governor also emphasized the importance of empowering local farmers, adding that the seed and fertilizer distribution drive is meant to cushion farmers from the high cost of inputs and improve food security in the region.
Governor Barasa’s bold stance highlights the growing tension between the national and county governments over fiscal responsibilities, and could set the stage for more heated debates in the coming weeks as counties push back against what they see as attempts to weaken devolution.
