Deputy Governors from all 47 counties have called on the Senate to amend the Constitution to formally entrench their roles, arguing that the current legal framework leaves them powerless despite being elected on the same ticket as Governors.
Speaking during a meeting with the Senate’s Standing Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations in Nakuru, the Deputy Governors’ Caucus, led by Chairperson Reuben Kamuri (Laikipia), lamented that the law does not clearly define their functions, reducing them to “personal assistants” rather than active participants in county governance.
Under Section 92 of the County Government Act, a Deputy Governor’s role is limited to deputising the Governor and performing any assigned duties. However, the deputies argue that this vagueness undermines their effectiveness.
“We are peers to the Governors and should be involved in day-to-day administration and oversight of county decisions,” Kamuri said. “The current law cripples us despite being elected by the people.”The Caucus urged the Senate to amend Section 32 of the County Government Act to explicitly outline their responsibilities, including chairing key programs—similar to how the Deputy President chairs the Intergovernmental Budget and Economic Council (IBEC).
The deputies also demanded 40% of the Governor’s budget to facilitate their offices, ensuring they can effectively support county leadership.
“Without proper funding, we cannot execute our mandate,” Kamuri emphasized. “We need autonomy to function, not just symbolic roles.”The Senate Committee on Devolution, chaired by Senator Mohamed Abass, acknowledged the concerns, agreeing that the Deputy Governor’s office needs legal empowerment. However, lawmakers urged the deputies to provide comparative research from other jurisdictions to guide amendments.
“Research how other countries or devolved systems handle deputy governors’ roles, budgets, and responsibilities,” said Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka. “Present a well-structured proposal to help us amend the law effectively.”While sympathetic, senators cautioned against potential conflicts with Governors, advising that any reforms must establish a clear demarcation of roles to maintain smooth county operations.
The Deputy Governors’ Caucus is expected to compile a report on best practices and submit it to the Senate for further legislative action. If adopted, the changes could redefine Kenya’s devolution framework, granting Deputy Governors a more substantive role in county governance.
