Kibwana unhappy with Uhuru's decision not to dissolve Makueni as MCAs celebrate

President Uhuru Kenyatta's decision not to dissolve the Makueni County government as recommended by Mohammed Nyaoga-led commission has sparked joy and anger in the county.

Governor Kivutha Kibwana, who strongly supported dissolution of his government, and those who petitioned for the dissolution, are still sulking over the decision.

However, members of the county assembly (MCAs) who opposed the dissolution are over the moon with excitement.

Makueni County Assembly Majority Leader Francis Mutuku says Makueni residents will never forget Uhuru's good gesture.

"God is great. It is foolish to allow a house to be demolished when you are inside. We forgive those who pushed for dissolution and call upon them to join us in delivering services" said Mr Mutuku.

Mutuku said the commission had unearthed serious problems in the county, including corruption, which must be dealt with in the shortest time possible.

Assembly Speaker Stephen Ngelu termed the President's decision "Solomonic" and termed Uhuru a true friend of devolution

But Kibwana did not have kind words for the President's action. The governor took to his Facebook page to register his disappointment.

Popular sovereignty

"We know many affected leaders have lobbied for the county government not to be suspended. I know for a fact that the overwhelming majority of the people of Makueni expected their county government to be suspended in line with their will and expression of popular sovereignty. The commission's verdict confirmed their position," he wrote.

He added that he will soon hold meetings at the grassroots to gauge the people's mood and will support what the majority decides.

"Majority of the people are not happy with the President's verdict... instead of the President sitting alone and deciding, he should have forwarded the report to the Senate. People are disappointed," said the lead petitioner, Munyoki Ndolo.

But Mbooni MP Kisoi Munyao, a harsh critic of the governor, said he is lobbying other leaders to convene a rally to thank the President.

"We will convene a huge rally to thank the President for refusing to be drawn into petty issues and individual fights," said Mr Munyao.