Monday, September 1,
2025 - Narok Senator Ledama Olekina has warned President William Ruto
against imposing the electronic procurement (e-procurement) system on County Governments.
In a statement issued on Monday, September 1st,
Olekina said Counties are semi-autonomous entities under the Constitution and
cannot be compelled by the national Government to adopt systems without proper
consultation.
“With the utmost respect, Mr. President, County Governments are
constitutionally semi-autonomous.”
“Article 219 mandates that counties receive their equitable
share of revenue without undue delay and deduction,” Olekina stated.
“While the intent behind the e-procurement directive is
understood, imposing it on counties exceeds the powers granted to the national Government.”
The ODM Senator warned that the directive risks triggering
costly court battles, which could drain County resources and stall development
projects.
He backed the Council of Governors (CoG) for defending County
autonomy and emphasized the need for mutual respect between the two levels of Government.
“This crosses boundaries the Constitution clearly defined to
safeguard devolution.”
“The Council of Governors is right to call for proper
consultation in line with the law,” he added.
His remarks came a day after President Ruto, speaking in
Siaya, insisted that the e-procurement system will be fully implemented,
warning that officials opposed to the transition should “leave government and
look for other jobs.”
Treasury CS John Mbadi has also directed all State
departments to comply, noting that no procurement will proceed outside the new
system.
The Kenyan DAILY POST
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