MCAs Boycott Speech by CS Sent to Represent President Ruto
Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) on Monday, March 17, staged a protest by refusing to listen to a speech delivered by Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya during the 5th Legislative Summit, which was organized by the County Assemblies Forum (CAF).
Mvurya had been sent as President William Ruto’s representative to address the gathering. However, as he began speaking, MCAs interrupted him with chants, demanding that the President himself attend the summit.
They continuously shouted, “No Ruto, No Summit,” disrupting the session and forcing organizers to temporarily halt proceedings while they attempted to manage the situation.
MCAs Wanted Ruto to Address Their Concerns Directly
The purpose of the summit was to explore ways in which county assemblies could improve their effectiveness and strengthen devolution.
Other key topics included enhancing cooperation between the county and national governments, advocating for increased county funding, and formulating better policies to support county operations.
Many MCAs had expected President Ruto to attend the event personally and address their pressing concerns. His absence was seen as a sign of disregard for county leadership, making the MCAs feel sidelined by the national government.
Funding Issues and National Government Control
One of the major grievances raised by the MCAs was the inadequate funding for counties. They also expressed frustration over delays in fund disbursement and what they described as excessive interference from the national government in county affairs.
A video reviewed by Newshub.co.ke captured the tense moment as MCAs stood firm in their protest, refusing to be pacified despite multiple attempts to restore order.
They insisted that President Ruto’s physical presence was essential to the discussions, arguing that counties play a critical role in the success of devolution and should not be overlooked.
Long-Standing Frustrations with the National Government
This protest comes months after MCAs had raised similar complaints about insufficient support from the national government.
They have been calling for more financial independence, improved working conditions, and a stronger commitment to devolution from the national leadership.
The summit, organized by the County Assemblies Forum (CAF), was meant to foster collaboration among county leaders and strengthen their relationship with the national government. However, Ruto’s absence appeared to deepen the existing frustrations.
While MCAs were protesting at the summit, President Ruto was engaged in other official duties, including attending an African Development Bank event at State House on the same day.
Join Gen z and millennials TaskForce official 2025 WhatsApp Channel To Stay Updated On time the ongoing situation https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30