Tharaka Nithi: A section of leaders and residents in Tharaka Nithi County have raised concerns over the proposed 2025/2026 county budget, citing blatant inequality in resource allocation. Addressing residents during a public forum held in Mitheru Ward, the area MCA Nevert Kinuthia led calls for an immediate review of the budget, claiming that both Mitheru and Nkondi Wards have received zero allocations in the proposed estimates despite their urgent development needs.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mr. Kinuthia alleged that the budget lacks fairness and is unconstitutional, as it does not uphold equity across wards. He highlighted that some wards have been favored with millions, while others like Mitheru have been completely sidelined. Furthermore, the MCA criticized the non-itemized nature of the budget, warning that such ambiguity paves the way for biased implementation and undermines oversight.
‘The Constitution demands transparency and equity. How can we perform oversight if projects are not itemized and some wards are openly neglected?’ he posed. He cited significant disparities in the wards and sub-county allocations, pointing out that Chogoria Ward has been allocated Sh 9 million, Mugwe Ward Sh 15 million, and Karingani Ward Sh 27 million.
At the sub-county level, the budget proposes that Tharaka Sub-County will get Sh135 million, Chuka Igambang’ombe Sh 96 million, while Maara Sub-County will receive Sh 29 million. ‘Where is equity? I reject this budget on behalf of the people of Mitheru, Nkondi, and Tharaka Nithi at large. These inequalities must be addressed before the budget progresses,’ said Mr. Kinuthia.
He called on Governor Muthomi Njuki to urgently convene a meeting with the Budget and Appropriations Committee to ensure that all wards are fairly considered and that project allocations are itemized. The sentiments were echoed by concerned residents, who urged the county leadership to embrace inclusive development. For instance, Morris Rwiga, a resident of Mitheru, said the budget must reflect balanced growth across all wards.
‘We are not second-class citizens. The Governor must ensure fairness and work with all leaders for the good of the county,’ said Mr. Rwiga. Peter Nyaga warned that unequal distribution of resources could create tension and division; ‘We want development that reaches every part of Tharaka Nithi. The governor must act.’
Rosemary Kawira, another resident, questioned the logic behind excluding entire wards and appealed to the county government to revise the budget in a consultative and equitable manner. As pressure mounts, the county government faces growing demands to deliver a budget that reflects constitutional values of fairness and inclusivity, ensuring that no ward is left behind.