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{
    "id": 961151,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/961151/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 291,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Sen. Sakaja",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": {
        "id": 13131,
        "legal_name": "Johnson Arthur Sakaja",
        "slug": "johnson-arthur-sakaja"
    },
    "content": "However, our colleagues were throwing figures from wherever as if it is an auction on Luthuli Avenue or Accra Road. We cannot say that we have tough times yet the national Budget is going up by 14 per cent and we only want an additional of 4 per cent based on core inflation. It would set a bad precedent. We told them that none of us can come back to the Senate and say to Members that we have brought an extra Kshs2 billion which is less than 2 per cent from the last provision yet we know counties are still struggling. Therefore, I urge Senators to be on standby as the Deputy Speaker directed earlier. This is because we will definitely come for a Special Sitting to set up the Mediation Committee and later come to adopt the report. We must change our approach to how we implement the Public Finance Management Act and finance laws. The principle of the Constitution is that both arms of Government are given a certain amount based on the division of revenue. Therefore, if that division of revenue is not done, one arm of Government grinds to a halt while the other continues with its operations. That goes against the spirit of the Constitution. I was one of its authors and I know its spirit. It also goes against the principles of an equitable financial system of public finance in this country. Madam Temporary Speaker, I am glad that on Tuesday, there will be a sitting in the intervening period as has been done in similar jurisdictions. This is because division of revenue says ‘x’ amount will go to counties. However, we agree that on 50 per cent of the last division of revenue provided, out of that counties will budget based on the ratios they used last time as we sort out our issues both in the courts of law and two in mediation which takes 60 days. However, many counties cannot survive for 60 days without money. Salaries are not being paid yet the normal mwananchi works in a county government, for example, a driver, nurse or accountant. They are unable to pay rent and feed their children. Let us think about them before the juvenile utterances of we are the ‘Upper House’ or ‘Lower House’. That Kenyan wants to pay rent. He or she does not care who is the ‘Upper House’ or ‘Lower House’. Madam Temporary Speaker, I wish my colleagues a fruitful and restful recess. Fortunately, for many of us, it coincides with holidays for our children. Please spend time with them. Yesterday, I was hurt when I saw three beautiful girls on Jeff Koinange Live,"
}