Taita-Taveta MCAs now fight role of ward managers

A row has erupted between the executive and ward representatives over the roles of ward administrators.

The Ward Reps, especially those elected, claimed ward administrators were undermining and interfering with their work at the ward level. The MCAs say the officials are on a special assignment to sabotage and finish them politically. The county has a total 20 electoral wards.

However, the executive is defensive on the matter. "Why is this question directed to us? We didn't deploy the administrators," responded the Director of Communications and County Spokesman Dennis Onsarigo.

Yesterday, Majority Leader Jason Tuja and the Assembly’s Chief Whip Abraham Juma said: “Some of the administrators lost to us during the last General Election and were given jobs as administrators. The officials are not doing what they are supposed to do. They do not even consult or involve us in whatever they do at the ward level". Mr Tuja is the Werugha Ward Rep.

Other elected MCAs who protested were Ahmed Omar, Kichoi Mwakanyanya, Patel Mng’ambwa and Justine Mwamba. “We will not allow the Executive to continue using the administrators to fight for our downfall. We will fight for our space,” said Tuja, adding: “The administrators do not know their roles. They are politicking, sabotaging and meddling in our affairs. The trend must stop or we will fight back. We will not allow the executive to continue undermining us."

The constitution says the ward administrators are responsible for coordination, management and supervision of the general administrative functions of the ward unit, facilitating and coordinating citizens' participation in the development of policies and plans and delivery of service.