Kenya's Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has accused President William Ruto of undermining the country's devolved system, warning that continued interference could hinder his chances of winning the Nairobi governorship in 2027. Speaking at a rally in Nairobi's Linda Mwananchi area, Sifuna specifically named Ruto as his biggest enemy in the political landscape. He also cautioned Embakasi East MP Babu Owino about the challenges of securing the governorship if the national government persists in encroaching on county powers.
Sifuna's remarks highlight growing tensions between the national government and local authorities in Kenya. The devolved system, established in 2010, aims to distribute power more evenly across the country's 47 counties. Sifuna's criticism comes amid ongoing debates over the balance of power between Nairobi, the capital, and its surrounding counties. His warning underscores the political stakes of the 2027 elections, which are expected to be highly competitive.
The senator's accusations reflect broader concerns about the centralization of power in Kenya. While the government argues that national oversight is necessary for consistency, critics like Sifuna claim it undermines the autonomy of local governments. The situation remains a key issue in the run-up to the upcoming elections, with political leaders on both sides vying for influence over the country's governance structure.
