CORD leader Raila Odinga calls for devolution of security

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga (left) is handed over leadership weapons by Turkana King Micahael Nan'godia (centre), during the forth day of the Turkana Tobong'u lore Cultural Festival at Ekalees Cultural Centre in Turkana County yesterday. Looking on are the county's governor Josphat Nanok (second left) among other leaders. 30.08.2015. Pictures By Peter Ochieng.

Coalition for Reforms and Democracy’s (CORD) Okoa Kenya referendum initiative will push for devolution of security to the counties, CORD leader Raila Odinga has said.

Governors, Raila says, understand best the security challenges in their counties and therefore should chair local security meetings.

“Security has deteriorated in parts of the country. We want security to be devolved so that governors become chairpersons of the county security committees,” he said.

He said security agencies, including the police and Criminal Investigations Department, should report to governors as they are well versed with the state of security.

Raila said the Constitution provides for devolution of power and resources and asked Kenyans to support Okoa Kenya proposals once they are subjected to a national referendum.

Okoa Kenya also wants the national government to increase revenue allocation to the devolved units from 15 per cent to 45 per cent.

Speaking during the Turkana Cultural Festival dubbed “Tobong’ Lore” in Lodwar, Raila also said for Kenyans to enjoy the fruits of devolution, discrimination must be rooted out at all levels.

“Tribalism should come to an end and Kenyans should not be discriminated against whenever they seek opportunities during interviews,” he said.

Turkana Governor Josphat Nanok said the festival will help cement peace among communities in the area, which have suffered insecurity for long.

The event was also attended by delegations from Uganda, Ethiopia and South Sudan.