Coastal Human Rights Group Advocates for Professional Handling of Bursary Issuance, Excluding MCAs

Coast, Kenya – The Coast Civil Society Network for Human Rights (CCSNH) is calling for a change in the way bursaries are distributed in the region, advocating for the exclusion of Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) from the process.

According to Kenya New Agency, the network monitors the budget cycle, including formulation, expenditure, and audit processes across the six coastal counties. CCSNH has closely followed the issuance of bursaries and identified several concerns. Adika highlighted that the network is working with the Abdulswamad Nassir administration to address these issues.

The group proposes that bursary distribution, particularly for the Mombasa County Elimu Fund, should be transparent and originate from educational institutions. They recommend the formation of committees at the Sub-County level to distribute forms, suggesting that ward administrators’ offices could step in if needed. Adika emphasized that bursary funds should not be managed through MCA offices.

Adika argued that MCAs should focus on their constitutional oversight roles, maintaining separation of power between the executive and the assembly. The civil society has communicated its stance to both the Governor and the County Assembly Speaker, urging MCAs to avoid involvement in processes that might compromise their oversight responsibilities.

CCSNH raised concerns that MCAs’ involvement in bursary distribution could lead to unfair practices, favoring their supporters over other deserving candidates. They urge fund administrators to report to the Office of the Auditor General and call on MCAs to fulfill their follow-up roles as mandated.

The network also advocates for the recruitment of professionals to administer the Elimu Funds, emphasizing the need for a non-political and professional approach in the selection process. Adika mentioned a specific incident in Changamwe constituency where chaos erupted last year during the distribution of bursary forms by an MCA.

Adika stressed that uniform and fair bursary issuance by the County Government could prevent favoritism and ensure a professional process that respects the educational needs of children and the development of county governance.