Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has voiced strong objections to the recent High Court ruling declaring the National Government-Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) unconstitutional. He asserts that the cessation of the NG-CDF would significantly burden parents with increased school fees, jeopardizing the educational opportunities available to students in his constituency and beyond.
Implications of the High Court Ruling
On Friday, the High Court delivered a landmark ruling on the NG-CDF Act of 2015, deeming it unconstitutional. This decision, delivered by Justices Kanyi Kimondo, Mugure Thande, and Roselyne Aburili, has raised serious concerns among lawmakers and constituents alike. The judges stated that all activities and projects funded by the NG-CDF would cease to operate by June 30, 2026.
Nyoro’s reaction underscores the tangible benefits the NG-CDF has brought to local communities, particularly in education. “I have seen the benefits of the CDF. In Kiharu Constituency, day school students pay Sh1,000 because of CDF,” he noted, emphasizing the role the fund plays in reducing the financial burden of education for families. “If we say that the CDF should cease, we are burdening the parents with school fees and developments,” he added.
The Historical Context of NG-CDF
The NG-CDF has been operational since 2003, aimed at enhancing development at the constituency level. It has provided crucial funding for various projects, including education, health, and infrastructure, directly benefiting communities across Kenya’s 290 constituencies. The fund was designed to empower local leaders to address the specific needs of their constituents, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability.
In their ruling, the justices acknowledged the significance of the NG-CDF, stating, “The value of its programmes to the local communities cannot be gainsaid.” The bench recognized that numerous short, medium, and long-term projects are currently being implemented, which could be adversely affected by the fund’s impending cessation.
The Need for Prayer and National Unity
In addition to his concerns about the NG-CDF, MP Nyoro called for a collective effort among Kenyans to pray for the country and its leadership. “Let us not just sit aside and watch politics unravel. Let us take up the mandate to pray for our country,” he urged, emphasizing the importance of national unity during these challenging times.
His plea reflects a broader sentiment among many leaders who believe that political instability and economic uncertainty require the active involvement of citizens, not just in governance but also in maintaining social cohesion.
Looking Ahead: The Future of NG-CDF
Despite the High Court’s ruling, the judges decided against an immediate cessation of the NG-CDF, recognizing that abrupt closure could disrupt ongoing projects and negatively impact local communities. Instead, they have provided a timeline, allowing for a gradual transition. The act and its programmes will continue until midnight on June 30, 2026, giving lawmakers and stakeholders time to assess the implications and seek alternatives for funding local projects.
This timeline presents an opportunity for dialogue among lawmakers, the public, and stakeholders to explore potential reforms to the NG-CDF or to develop alternative funding mechanisms. Nyoro’s comments highlight the need for a collaborative approach to address the challenges posed by the ruling while ensuring that local communities do not suffer.
Conclusion: A Call for Action
The ruling on the NG-CDF has sparked significant debate regarding the future of development funding in Kenya. As MP Ndindi Nyoro articulates, the cessation of the fund poses serious risks to education and community development, placing a heavier financial burden on parents and families.
As the country approaches the 2026 deadline, it remains crucial for leaders, community members, and policymakers to engage in constructive dialogue aimed at safeguarding the interests of local communities. In the meantime, Nyoro’s call for prayer and unity resonates as a reminder of the collective responsibility shared by all Kenyans in navigating these turbulent times.
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