Devolution
Devolution is a system of government in which state power is exercised at both the national and subnational levels. Under the Constitution of Kenya (2010), power is exercised at the national and county levels. This means that policy and legislative decisions may be made at both levels of government. The overall goal is to ensure that political decision-making is done at the level of government closest to the people who these decisions will impact.
Pillars of Devolution
Article 6(2) of the Constitution establishes distinctiveness and interdependence as the two pillars guiding Kenya’s system of devolution.
- Distinctiveness – This recognises that each level of government has its own sphere of operation where it may function independently without interference from the other level of government.
- Interdependence –This recognises that the two levels of government operate within the same national framework, highlighting the importance of consultation and collaboration in fulfilling their responsibilities.
Objectives of Devolution
The Constitution of Kenya (Article 174) outlines broad objectives for its system of devolution. These objectives are designed to guide the implementation of devolution and provide a framework for evaluating progress and success in that implementation. The objectives are as follows:
- Democracy
- Accountability
- Unity in Diversity
- Self-Governance
- Public participation
- Inclusivity
- Socio-economic Development
- Equitable Resources
- Checks and Balances
January 4, 2018