MPs question officials on Equalization Fund for marginalised communities

The Parliamentary Select Committee on Implementation on Saturday questioned officials of the Equalization Funds after citing an imminent lapse in its constitutionally allocated period of operation and criteria for identifying beneficiaries of the funds.

Led by the chairperson Raphael Wanjala, the legislator questioned the CEO of the fund Guyo Boru and the Principal Administrative Secretary of the National Treasury Samson Wangusi among others over the the implementation of several house resolutions regarding the Fund's administration.

The committee raised concern about progress made by the Equalization Fund Advisory Board in ensuring approved, incomplete and stalled projects are fully implemented to improve the quality of life for the citizens in the marginalized areas as envisaged in the constitution.

"The funds were meant to uplift the lifestyle of the marginalized people and it is only fair that this board ensures that it lives up to its intended purpose, " said MP Memusi Kanchory.

Memusi noted that nearly seven years into its intended period, the fund is yet to be fully operationalized.

The MPs took the two officials to task to explain the status of the development of the Second Marginalization Policy, taking into account the time of only seven years remaining as provided in Article 204(6) of the constitution.

Boru said the parliament could extend the lifespan of the funds through a decision based on an impact assessment and further called on the intervention of the National Assembly.

Some of the MPs expressed concern about the lack of functional physical offices and consultation in the implementation of the project funds

"As an MP, my opinion has never been sought on the criteria for allocation of these funds to the locations in my region. Is it not prudent to set up functional offices in the areas where you operate, to create linkages with other offices like the MPs office? " questioned Marakwet East MP Timothy Kipchumba.

Article 204 of the Constitution establishes the Equalisation Fund in Kenya which shall be paid one-half per cent (0.5%) of all the revenue collected by the national government each year.

The amount is calculated based on the most recent (Auditor General’s) audited accounts of revenue received, as approved by the National Assembly.

The national government shall use the Equalisation Fund only to provide basic services to marginalised areas.

These services include water, roads, health facilities and electricity.