Revenue Row Between Kenya’s Senate and National Assembly Threatens County Shutdown

Nairobi, Kenya – A deepening political standoff between Kenya’s Senate and National Assembly is pushing the country’s devolved system of governance to the brink, as the two chambers remain locked in a bitter and unresolved dispute over the county revenue-sharing formula.

After three consecutive sessions of tense, often fiery debates, lawmakers have failed to reach consensus on how to equitably allocate national revenue to the country’s 47 counties. The stalemate, which persisted as of June 18, now risks delaying critical funding for local governments—jeopardizing healthcare delivery, infrastructure development, and essential public services.

At the heart of the deadlock lies deep disagreement over the criteria that should guide revenue distribution. While some legislators push for a population-based approach to ensure resource allocation reflects demographic needs, others advocate for geographic equity, arguing that marginalized and expansive regions require greater investment to overcome historical underdevelopment.

“This impasse is not just a political dispute—it’s a threat to the functionality of our counties,” warned one senior senator. “If we do not resolve this urgently, we are courting a constitutional and service delivery crisis.”

The tension underscores the fragile balancing act of Kenya’s devolved governance system, enshrined in the 2010 Constitution to promote inclusivity, equity, and localized decision-making. Yet, without a revenue deal, counties may soon be forced to suspend programs, delay salaries, and halt development projects, plunging millions of Kenyans into uncertainty.

Civic groups and devolution experts are now calling for neutral mediation, urging both houses to prioritize national interest over political brinkmanship.

“We cannot allow political egos to hold the country hostage,” said a devolution watchdog official. “Compromise is not a weakness—it’s a necessity when lives and livelihoods are on the line.”

As pressure mounts and time runs out, all eyes are on Parliament’s leadership to break the deadlock and avert a full-blown financial crisis that could undermine the very foundation of Kenya’s devolved government.