National Dialogue Committee (NADCO), an ad hoc body tasked with overseeing the implementation of the 10-point agenda, has accused governors in Nyanza region of giving the committee a wide berth during its regional sittings.

Vice Chair Javas Bigambo expressed regret that, despite the critical role governors play in devolution, none from the region had engaged with the committee.

Bigambo made the remarks in Siaya town when he and the committee paid a courtesy call to Siaya County Assembly Speaker George Okode. Prior to that, the team had visited Siaya County Commissioner Nobert Komora.

“We would like to appeal to governors across the country that as we engage in regional discussions and public participation, they should afford us some time,” Bigambo said. “It is regrettable that in Nyanza, we have not been fortunate to engage with a single governor, even though matters of devolution directly affect the people and counties,” he explained.

Bigambo urged citizens to actively participate in public forums to share views on good governance, devolution, protests and compensation issues, emphasizing that NADCO’s recommendations would further strengthen Kenya’s governance framework.

Committee member Kevin Kiarie noted that public participation has been encouraging, with Kenyans from all political formations contributing their views.

“Though the committee was formed by UDA and ODM, the 10-point agenda cuts across party lines and citizens from all regions are engaging,” he said.

Speaker George Okode called for full autonomy of county assemblies, highlighting the need to review the Public Finance Management Act to ensure direct access to funds.

“As we speak, it is still business as usual. County assemblies are requesting funds through County Executive Committee members,” he lamented.

Okode further urged the devolution of all identified functions and the release of funds to facilitate implementation. He also recommended reviewing Members of County Assemblies’ pensions to align with other state officers.

Following the courtesy calls, NADCO held a public participation forum at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology in Bondo town to collect views from citizens on governance and devolution matters.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Philip Onyango