LEDAMA OLEKINA WARNS RUTO AGAINST IMPOSING E-PROCUREMENT ON COUNTIES

Narok Senator Ledama Olekina has cautioned President William Ruto against unilaterally enforcing the electronic procurement (e-procurement) system on county governments, stating that such a move is unconstitutional. In a statement issued on Monday, September 1, 2025, Ledama emphasized that counties are constitutionally semi-autonomous entities. He argued that the President's directive compelling counties to adopt the e-procurement system oversteps the bounds of the national government’s authority.

"With the utmost respect, Mr. President, county governments are constitutionally semi-autonomous. Article 219 of the Constitution guarantees that counties receive their equitable share of revenue without delay or deductions," the ODM Senator said. While acknowledging that the directive may be well-intentioned, Ledama maintained that mandating the system’s adoption infringes on county autonomy. He warned that such overreach could lead to legal battles. “This directive risks sparking expensive court cases that would drain county resources and hinder development. It also disregards the clear constitutional boundaries meant to protect devolution,” he noted.

Senator Ledama further backed the Council of Governors (CoG), saying they are justified in defending devolution and advocating for mutual respect and meaningful consultation between the two levels of government.“The Council of Governors is right to stand firm on county autonomy and to insist on proper consultation, as required by law,” he concluded.