MCAs scoff at Omingo Magara over bullying claims

By Kenan Miruka

Kisii, Kenya: Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) in Kisii and Nyamira counties have defended themselves against accusations that they lack independence in their roles.

Centre for Multiparty Democracy (CMD) Chairman Omingo Magara at the weekend raised a red flag over what he termed lack of autonomy in decision making among county reps, which may hinder the oversight and legislative roles.

Mr Magara noted that some governors and speakers overrun county assemblies, adding that there was a thin line separating county executives and county assemblies, which threatens devolution. 

In a rejoinder, Nyamira County Assembly Majority Leader Beauttah Omanga (pictured) and Bokimonge Ward county rep in Kisii County George Bibao said blanket condemnation of MCAs was regrettable and demeaning.

“While we concede that tyranny of numbers in county assemblies is a reality that threatens democracy in this country, it is wrong to assume all county assemblies lack independence. In Nyamira County for instance, our independence speaks out as we have rejected a number of nominees brought to us by the governor. We don’t dance to his tune,” said Mr Omanga.

Omanga said Kenyans elected respectable individuals whose performance will be rated in terms of service delivery and not their loyalty.