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Member of Parliament for Embakasi East, Babu Owino has strongly condemned the recent transfer of key functions of Nairobi City County to the National Government, describing the move as both illegal and unconstitutional.
In a fiery statement released today, Owino expressed alarm that the process appeared to be hostile and accused the authorities of sidestepping the established constitutional procedures, including public participation.
Yesterday, we witnessed what appeared to be a hostile transfer of key Nairobi City County functions to the National Government. This process was done illegally, and we are now being told that public participation is supposed to happen after the signing of this agreement,” Owino said.
He argued that the transfer undermines the spirit of devolution, which is enshrined in the Kenya Constitution and warned that there is no legal justification for the National Government to assume control over county functions.
According to the MP, the move sets a dangerous precedent that could weaken county governments across the country and erode citizens’ trust in devolution.
Owino also questioned the rationale behind the timing of the agreement, asserting that proper consultation with stakeholders and Nairobi residents should have preceded any formal signing.
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He claimed that bypassing public participation violates citizens’ rights to be involved in decisions affecting governance and service delivery within their county.
This development has sparked debate among political leaders and legal experts.
Critics argue that if implemented without proper oversight, the transfer could lead to administrative confusion and compromise the efficient delivery of services in Kenya’s capital.
Supporters of the move, however, claim it is part of a broader cooperation framework intended to enhance coordination between the National Government and the county administration, particularly in areas like infrastructure, health and sanitation.
The statement by Owino adds to a growing chorus of voices concerned about Nairobi’s autonomy and the protection of devolved powers.
It is likely that the issue will continue to dominate political discourse in the coming weeks, especially as legal challenges or parliamentary scrutiny may be considered to contest the transfer.
As Nairobi residents watch closely, the debate over devolution, governance and the balance of power between county and national authorities appears set to intensify.
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