Another showdown looms as Senators set to debate revenue formula

The political storm over the controversial third generation revenue-sharing formula continues to gather pace even as both sides vow not back down on their positions.

A caucus of senators supporting the formula met on Monday and resolved to go ahead and pass it on the floor of the House when it will come up for debate on Tuesday.

According to Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, they are set to meet President Uhuru Kenyatta on Tuesday morning to strategize on how to ensure they get the formula over the line.

Speaking after the meeting convened by Majority Whip Irungu Kangata, Cherargei said they have the numbers and will not accept to be blackmailed by the ‘marginalization card.’

“For how long will the populous counties be punished? Why are we being punished because we have people, should we tell our mothers to close their wombs,” Cherargei posed.

However, the senators opposing the formula have also vowed not to be moved, saying they will only support a formula that cushions their counties from losing any money.

Senators from the coastal region, North Eastern, upper Eastern and Maasai land say they will not be intimidated into supporting the formula.

“They want to divide this country into two, the haves and the have nots, we will not accept that, it’s not what devolution is about,” said Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina.

ODM leader Raila Odinga wants the senators to go back to the Commission for Revenue Allocation (CRA) formula if they can’t agree with the amendments proposed by various Senators.