Treasury CS John Mbadi Drops Bombshell: Scrap 47 Counties – ‘Kenya Can’t Afford Them!’
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has proposed reducing the number of counties in Kenya, saying the current 47 counties are unsustainable due to the high wage bill.
Speaking in an interview on Wednesday, March 19, Mbadi suggested that Kenya should revert to the original eight provinces or have a maximum of 14 counties. He explained that counties employ too many people, making it difficult for the national government to pay salaries.
Too Many Employees in Counties
Mbadi highlighted that counties have unnecessary positions such as directors for fishermen, boda bodas, music, and culture, all earning high salaries. He argued that maintaining 47 counties is expensive since each has a governor, deputy governor, county ministers, chief officers, and assemblies.
Reducing Counties to Save Money
The CS believes that reducing the number of counties will help solve Kenya’s financial crisis and ensure resources reach the grassroots. He stated that even with eight or 14 counties, devolution can still work without maintaining expensive county governments.
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“I would go for a maximum of 14 because some regions like Rift Valley and Eastern Province were too large. Even eight counties would still serve the country well as long as resources are devolved,” Mbadi said.
High Government Spending on Salaries and Debt
Mbadi also revealed that out of the Ksh 2.5 trillion collected in taxes annually, the government spends Ksh 960 billion on salaries. Additionally, about Ksh 1.1 trillion goes to loan repayment, leaving very little for development projects.
“Today, we are paying Ksh 80 billion per month in salaries. That’s Ksh 960 billion a year. With Ksh 1.1 trillion going to loan repayments, how do we fund development?” he questioned.
The proposal to reduce counties is expected to spark national debate, as it could impact governance and service delivery across the country.
Treasury CS John Mbadi Drops Bombshell: Scrap 47 Counties – ‘Kenya Can’t Afford Them!’
