Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has called for the dissolution of Parliament, following growing concerns about the involvement of the Executive in budgetary decisions, particularly regarding county allocations. Speaking on Wednesday, Sifuna expressed deep frustration over the alleged centralization of budget decisions, which he believes undermines the role and powers of Parliament. His remarks come amid a financial standoff between the National Assembly and the Senate over the disbursement of funds to county governments.
Sifuna’s comments revolve around the controversial position taken by National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, who recently stated that the only money he can allocate to county governments is Sh380 billion. This statement, according to Sifuna, raises significant constitutional concerns, as it suggests that key financial decisions are being made outside of Parliament, which is tasked with such responsibilities under Kenya’s Constitution.
The Senate had initially proposed a higher amount of Sh400.1 billion for the counties, while the National Assembly insisted on Sh380 billion, creating a deadlock that has yet to be resolved. A mediation committee comprising members from both Houses of Parliament met on November 12, 2024, but failed to reach a consensus on the matter. This lack of agreement now threatens the functioning of county governments, many of which depend heavily on these allocations for their operations.
For Sifuna, this situation is not only a matter of financial disagreements but a breach of the constitutional doctrine of separation of powers. He argued that if decisions on budget allocations are being made outside of Parliament, then there is no need for the legislature to continue in its current form. “Let us dissolve Parliament, let Mbadi make all the decisions on the monies to be disbursed,” Sifuna said, questioning the relevance of MPs in a scenario where the executive assumes the authority to dictate financial matters.
The Nairobi Senator further criticized the practice of inviting MPs to State House to discuss budgetary issues, insisting that Parliament should not cede its powers to the Executive. “Honourable Ndindi Nyoro, at least you have the luxury of being invited to State House. I am persona non grata there. I’m not going to go to State House to do what?” Sifuna remarked, underscoring his refusal to participate in what he perceives as an unconstitutional and undignified practice. He emphasized that Parliament, not the Executive, is responsible for budget oversight and approval, a responsibility enshrined in the Constitution.
Sifuna’s statement also reflects a broader concern among lawmakers about the growing influence of the Executive over parliamentary functions. By insinuating that the Executive is dictating terms on financial matters, Sifuna alluded to a potential erosion of Parliament’s independence and authority. He categorically rejected any suggestion that budget negotiations be conducted outside the prescribed channels, particularly at State House, a move that he believes could set a dangerous precedent for future governance.
Despite the current tensions, the disagreement between the Senate and the National Assembly is not merely about money but about the very principles of democratic governance and the balance of power. For Sifuna, who is an ardent defender of the Constitution, it is essential that Parliament be allowed to exercise its mandate without interference from other branches of government. His impassioned call for Parliament to carry out its constitutional duties underscores his belief that Kenyans expect their elected representatives to stand firm in the face of executive overreach.
The standoff continues to fuel the debate over the future of Kenya’s devolution and the role of Parliament in upholding constitutional principles. As the deadline for the budgetary approval looms, it remains to be seen how the deadlock will be resolved and whether Sifuna’s calls for the dissolution of Parliament will gain traction among other lawmakers. The outcome of this dispute could have far-reaching consequences for the country’s political landscape, particularly in terms of the balance of power between the legislative and executive branches.
