The decision follows a committee session held on Monday, April 27, 2026, during which municipal board chairpersons presented complaints alleging interference in their operations by the county executive, as well as a breakdown in working relations that has hampered service delivery.
Committee members said the issues raised pointed to systemic challenges that require urgent attention to ensure effective functioning of municipal boards and the delivery of services to residents.
“We have heard your case. We will subsequently invite the Governor of Kisumu (Prof.) Anyang’ Nyong’o and all other governors to address these issues.
If there is a lacuna in the Act, we will amend it to streamline the municipal boards’ functions fully,” the committee chairperson, Mohammed Abbas, said.
During the session, municipal board leaders told the committee that their institutions were receiving only between 30 and 40 per cent of their approved budgets, a situation they said had significantly constrained their operations.
They explained that the funding shortfall had made it difficult to implement planned urban development projects, maintain infrastructure, and provide essential services to residents within their jurisdictions.
The officials further alleged that interference from the county executive had undermined their independence, creating tensions that have affected coordination and decision-making processes.
Committee members expressed concern over the allegations, noting that municipal boards play a critical role in managing urban areas and ensuring efficient service delivery.
They said that any breakdown in governance structures at the municipal level could have far-reaching consequences for residents, particularly in areas such as waste management, road maintenance, and urban planning.
The committee indicated that it would seek explanations from Governor Nyong’o regarding the concerns raised, including the alleged interference and the issue of inadequate funding.
Lawmakers also signalled the possibility of reviewing existing legislation governing municipal boards if gaps are identified that hinder their effectiveness.
The summons is part of the Senate’s broader oversight role over county governments, aimed at ensuring accountability and proper use of public resources.