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President William Ruto has promised to fully support devolution by ensuring counties get funds on time.
He said he had directed the release of Sh32 billion to counties for this month.
“I’m sincerely committed to ensuring counties are fully empowered to do their own things. My administration fully supports devolution because we know what devolution can do for this country. And because of that, I have already paid counties their dues,” he said.
“In fact, today, I am releasing Sh32 billion for all the 47 counties for this month. I want governors to be independent while undertaking development at the grassroots.”
The President spoke on Thursday in Mokowe in Lamu West where he opened Sh214 million county commissioner’s office and headquarters.
During the visit, Ruto also issued a Sh65 million cheque for Lamu fisher groups to expand their work.
On the anti-government protests, President Ruto said the country does not belong to individuals or political parties.
“The country doesn’t belong to an individual, a political party or a group of certain people. We won’t allow you to cause anarchy. Matters of security are non-negotiable,” he said.
He issued a stern warning to those hiding behind anti-government demonstrations and committing crimes, including fighting the police.
Ruto said more than 300 police officers are admitted to various hospitals with injuries inflicted on them by violent protesters.
He praised the police and other security agencies for protecting the country, its citizens and property during the protests.
“This maandamano thing will finally die. We won’t allow goons to hide behind politics and destroy property, cause mayhem and unrest in this country,” the President said.
“For those attacking our police, they should know that doing so is similar to fighting the Republic of Kenya and the Constitution. We won’t allow that.”
Lamu Governor Issa Timamy pledged to work with the national government, saying those opposing the Finance Act, 2023 are people who have not even read the document.
“Mr President, our people here are hardworking. We have undertaken serious farming and we’re ready for a bumper harvest,” he said.
“We know wearing sufurias and going to the streets will not solve the cost of living issue or bring food to the table. In fact, Lamu has never participated in Maandamano and I assure you that you won’t see much in this place.”
President Ruto was accompanied by Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, Blue Economy CS Salim Mvurya, his Interior counterpart Kithure Kindiki, Aisha Jumwa of Public Service, PS, senators, MPs and MCAs. BY THE STAR