Kitui County could face a budgetary crisis as its assembly currently lacks an active budget committee to deliberate the 2025/26 fiscal estimates. Assembly Speaker Kevin Katisya said the process is in limbo following a court case filed by some MCAs opposing the constitution of a new Budget and Appropriations Committee, effectively halting committee operations.
The governor presented the 2025/26 budget estimates by April 30, but without a functioning budget committee, nothing can move forward, Katisya said. The paralysed committees also prevent deliberation on the 2024/25 Supplementary Budget II, which includes Sh332 million in donor funds.
Katisya indicated he is considering forming ad-hoc committees to facilitate budget deliberation while awaiting court rulings. He reassured residents that the assembly will continue overseeing county projects and maintain a cordial working relationship with Governor Julius Malombe.
The assembly will, without fear or favour, continue its constitutional duty of oversight, Katisya emphasized, dismissing claims of friction between the legislature and the county executive.