Ruto true champion of devolution

Kenyans across the political divide agree that devolution is the greatest gift the new Constitution has given them.

Devolution has ensured that critical services and infrastructural development have trickled to the grassroots.

For the very first time since independence, Kenyans have tasted the fruits of devolution, making everyone to wonder why it did not happen earlier.

Never again will the political elite in the national government dangle the once infamous “development carrot” as a tool for political manipulation because the Constitution guarantees the devolved system of Government where all Kenyans are assured of equitable development.

One of the greatest proponents of devolution will always remain Governor Isaac Ruto. He has fought long and hard to ensure devolution takes root in this country.

Ruto’s battle for equitable development dates back to the days of Bomas where he was in the forefront of championing what was then seen as the controversial “Ugatuzi” debate. He never wavered in his quest for the devolved system of government.

After the 2013 General Election, Ruto was elected chairman of the Council of Governors and embarked on his job of ensuring that devolution took root, thereby rubbing many the wrong way.

It was Governor Ruto who later on spearheaded the ‘Pesa Mashinani’ initiative, advocating that more funds be devolved to give adequate and better services to the Kenyan people.

As we move into the future, and continue to sample the benefits of devolution, Kenyans will continue to demand for more, better and accountable devolved services from their elected leaders.

And Governor Ruto will go down into the history books as a true champion of devolution who spoke on behalf of many Kenyans.