BWOMANGA: Why Kenya needs systems, not handshakes

The visit to State House by Siaya Governor James Orengo, followed by the announcement of major development projects for his county, has stirred both optimism and unease. 

While the people of Siaya stand to benefit from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) taking over the upgrade of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium and the construction of a new referral hospital, the political context surrounding these developments cannot be ignored.

Governor Orengo's shift from a vocal critic of the Kenya Kwanza administration to a cooperative partner appears to have unlocked a stream of national government support.

This pattern is not new. In recent years, we've seen a troubling trend where development projects are disproportionately allocated to regions whose leaders pledge allegiance to the ruling party.

This is not just about Siaya. In Homa Bay, for instance, the Raila Odinga Stadium was swiftly upgraded by the KDF after the county leadership aligned with the national government. 

Meanwhile, counties perceived as opposition strongholds continue to lag behind, not because they lack need, but because they lack political favour.

This behaviour is symptomatic of a broken system--one where development is not a right, but a reward. It undermines the very essence of democracy and equitable governance. 

Every Kenyan pays taxes. Every Kenyan deserves access to quality infrastructure, health care, and education--regardless of how their elected leaders vote or speak.

The Constitution of Kenya envisions a devolved system of government where counties have the autonomy and resources to develop independently. Yet, when governors must go to State House to "beg" for development, it shows that devolution is still being held hostage by centralised political interests.

The Constitution of Kenya is clear: resources must be distributed equitably across all regions. It is the duty of legislators--not just the executive--to ensure this happens. Yet, what we are witnessing today is a complete abdication of this responsibility.

Instead of holding the executive accountable, many Members of Parliament (MPs) have become what Kenyans now call the "praise and worship team" at State House--a group more interested in photo ops and political survival than in defending the Constitution they swore to uphold.

This behaviour has made it painfully easy for the executive to continue using development as a political weapon. When legislators fail to demand transparency, fairness, and accountability, they enable a system where only the politically loyal are rewarded, and the rest are left behind. This is not just a betrayal of the Constitution--it is a betrayal of the people.

While millions are being spent on empowerment programmes and donations--often with little accountability--critical sectors like education and health care are underfunded. Nurses are underpaid or unemployed. County governments face delays in disbursements. Youth unemployment is rising, and with it, crime and social unrest. This is not just inefficient--it's dangerous.

President Ruto has a choice. He can continue down the path of political patronage, or he can be the leader who reforms the system. True leadership means doing the right thing, even when it's unpopular. If he focuses on building systems that work--transparent, fair, and inclusive--he won't need to campaign for re-election. His work will speak for itself.

Kenya doesn't need more handshakes. It needs systems. Systems that ensure every county, every citizen, and every child has a fair shot--regardless of who they voted for. 

Until then, development will remain a privilege for the politically connected, not a right for all.

By Job Nyangenya Bwomanga – Eminent Peace Ambassador - UN