Post: CAF Seeks Constitutional Amendment for Ward Fund and MCA Pension Scheme

Homa bay: The County Assemblies Forum (CAF) has urged the government to anchor the Ward Development Fund (WDF) in the Constitution and establish a comprehensive pension scheme for Members of County Assemblies (MCAs). Speaking during the ongoing 2025 Devolution Conference in Homa Bay, CAF Chair Seth Mwatela Kamanza emphasized the importance of these measures in strengthening devolution.According to Kenya News Agency, Mwatela highlighted the need for additional efforts to empower county assemblies and ensure equitable development, despite significant progress made since the inception of devolution. He pointed out that the Constitution is currently being amended to include the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), while the Ward Development Fund was omitted. Mwatela called on the government, Senate, and National Assembly to incorporate the WDF in the amendment bill, equipping MCAs with necessary tools to drive grassroots development.Mwatela underscor ed the potential of the WDF to enable members to address community needs more effectively, describing county assemblies as the 'heart and soul' of devolution and the closest link between the government and the people. He stated that their role extends beyond administrative tasks, focusing on enacting community-specific laws to ensure inclusive development. Since 2013, county assemblies have enacted over 2,000 pieces of legislation.The chair also advocated for a comprehensive pension scheme for MCAs, arguing that their demanding work warrants a dignified retirement. He noted the inadequacy of current legislation before the National Assembly in addressing pension needs, coupled with stagnant remuneration since devolution's inception, despite ongoing discussions with the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).Mwatela praised the passing of the County Public Finance Law Amendment Bill 2023, labeling it a historic milestone that would liberate county assemblies from executive dependence, enabling MCAs to p erform their duties without fear or favour.