Despite hiccups, 2010 law offers ray of hope for Kenya

The Ipsos poll detailing the public’s views on the Constitution and particularly on devolution were gratifying to many of us who recognise the fundamental way in which the new law has transformed Kenya for the better. What is amazing is that the overwhelming support for the Constitution and for devolution comes despite the incessant reports on the Constitution’s and devolution’s alleged defects.

This has been the month of the health crisis, when health workers went on strike demanding salaries and promotions. There were accompanying loud calls to take health back to the national government. I am always amazed that people make such proposals without batting an eyelid while newspapers abound with reports of the significant challenges facing the national government in functions it has not devolved, including education, security including the referral hospitals! I would for example support the clamour for roll back of health if non-devolved education was doing splendidly and the national government’s referral hospitals at Kenyatta and Moi were offering services with excellence.