How devolution dream has been snatched from hopeful Kenyans

Tharaka Nithi Governor,Muthomi Njuki,Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga and Kirinyaga Governor Ann Waiguru during a media briefing in Nairobi on 21st March 2025. [David Gichuru, Standard]

In 2012, prior to the first elections under the new Constitution, I had the privilege, then as a public servant, to visit a significant number of counties to undertake public education on the Constitution and impending elections.

In all the places we went, including far-flung places like Kehancha, Taveta and Moyale, whose access at that time was through treacherous untarmacked roads, there was one common denominator, an overwhelming excitement for devolution. Kenyans understood that devolution was the Constitution's most fundamental initiative, the ultimate game changer in reforming Kenya's political and economic malaise.