Senators Warn MCAs Against External Pressures in Lawmaking Role

The Senate Committee on Delegated Legislation has urged Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) to remain firm in exercising their constitutional mandate of scrutinising regulations, even in the face of political and financial pressures.

The Committee, led by Chairperson Senator Mwenda Gataya, made the call during visits to Tharaka Nithi and Embu Counties, where they held joint sessions with County Assembly committees.

Speaking in Tharaka Nithi, Sen. Gataya told MCAs to be vigilant and resist external influence.
“You should be smart and thorough. Make sure members are updated to make the right decisions on regulations, despite political machinations which are everywhere,” he said.

He assured MCAs that the Senate would continue to support them, including building capacity to help them carry out their mandate effectively.

Vice Chairperson of the Committee, Senator Danson Mungatana (Tana River), asked MCAs to be proactive and not over-rely on the National Government.
“The best thing is to create budgetary allocations within yourselves to respond quickly to financial needs. Depending too much on external support will derail your plans,” he said.

MCAs in Tharaka Nithi welcomed the Senators’ advice but expressed concern that County Assemblies still depended on County Treasuries for funds, leaving them vulnerable to executive interference. Sen. Mungatana dismissed those concerns, insisting that the new law was sufficient to guarantee financial independence if enforced properly.

The Committee later visited Embu County, where they commended the Assembly for progress in legislative oversight. Sen. Mungatana urged MCAs to maintain proper records for continuity, while Sen. Gataya praised Embu as a model Assembly.

In Embu, MCAs pledged to remain committed to their duties but appealed for more Senate support in capacity building.

Sen. Mungatana also called on the National Government to release county funds on time, warning that delays undermined devolution.
“The National Government must support devolution by disbursing money meant for counties on time,” he said.

The Senator further cautioned governors against introducing punitive regulations, stressing that legislation was the exclusive role of County Assemblies.
“Governors must not usurp the powers of County Assemblies. MCAs should annul any regulations that negatively affect citizens,” he said.

Senators Gataya and Mungatana assured Assemblies that the Senate would continue to defend devolution and safeguard the independence of County Assemblies.