Kivutha Kibwana: Kenya's Constitution strong, but accountability remains weak

Former Makueni Governor Prof Kivutha Kibwana. [File, Standard]

Former Makueni Governor Prof Kivutha Kibwana has called out the government for failing to fully implement the constitution, warning that key institutions are being undermined.

Speaking on Spice FM on Monday, April 28, Kibwana said the constitution remains strong on paper but is not being effectively enforced.

"We have a strong constitution, but up to now, we have not implemented it fully and done the things that the constitution says we need to do," he said, adding, "These institutions are trying to do their jobs, but even as they do so, they are under attack."

He also pointed to weak parliamentary oversight, accusing MPs of being controlled by political kingpins.

"Many MPs are controlled by the kingpin, and they accept directives to secure their political future," Kibwana explained.

He specifically criticised the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), which he said leads to the misuse of public funds.

"In the National Assembly, they are often influenced by the CDF, which leads to monkey business," he added.

Kibwana also accused members of county assemblies (MCAs) of being co-opted through contracts, undermining accountability at the local level.

"If you interrogate closely, you might find that in many counties, MCAs are given contracts or their proxies," he said.

Despite the challenges, Kibwana remains firm that the constitution is strong, but he urged for more action to ensure its proper implementation.

At the same time, Kibwana expressed concern about the capture of constitutional commissions, including the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), by the Executive.