President William Ruto of Kenya signed two new laws passed by the Senate on October 19, 2026, at Eldoret State Lodge. The bills aim to reform county funding mechanisms and improve the administration of county assemblies. The legislation was approved after extensive debate in the Senate.
The first law modifies how counties receive and manage their budgets, introducing stricter accountability measures for financial transparency. The second law outlines new procedures for the operation of county assemblies, including updated rules for legislative sessions and staff management. Both laws were presented as part of broader efforts to enhance governance efficiency and reduce corruption.
The reforms follow years of public pressure for greater transparency in local government. Kenya's 2010 constitution established a decentralized system of governance, but critics have long argued that implementation has been inconsistent. The new laws are expected to clarify the roles of county officials and improve oversight. The Senate had previously debated the proposals for over a year, with lawmakers from different parties offering amendments. The final versions of the bills reflect compromises on key issues such as budget allocation and legislative authority. The changes come amid ongoing discussions about the effectiveness of Kenya's devolution model.
