X Space discussion exposes failures that undermine governance in Nakuru County

Where do we draw the line between a public servants private life and his public responsibilities? And more specifically, does Nakuru deserve an explanation after the Governor's four-month absence?

These were the questions on the minds of Nakuru residents who joined the Twitter Space conversation hosted by Mtaa Wangu.

The space, titled "Kihika's Back - But Does Nakuru Deserve an Explanation?", brought together panelists from different sectors.

Each offered a unique perspective, making the discussion both lively and thought-provoking.

Laban Omusundi, Executive Director of the Grassroots Civilian Oversight Initiative, says that as an elected rather than appointed official, Governor Kihika is accountable to the public - and her prolonged absence is therefore a matter of public concern.

Maimuna Munyi, a paralegal from Nakuru, agrees with Laban. She acknowledges that maternity leave is a fundamental right and that civil servants are entitled to personal time.

But she stresses that the nature of such positions demands continuity. In her view, the line is crossed when a leader's private affairs begin to affect service delivery.

"Mechanisms must be in place to enhance the sustainability and accountability of leadership," says Maimuna. "In a nutshell, as a public servant, the governor should have communicated with her constituents and delegated her duties - especially knowing that she was going on maternity leave."

Tanga Jordan, vice-chairman of the Law Society of Kenya, Nakuru County, adds that even in the governor's absence, proper channels of communication should have been followed.

He explains that an internal memo should have been sent and formally presented to both the County Executive Committee and the Members of the County Assembly (MCAs).

"At one point," he notes, "Maimuna raised a critical issue: in the governor's absence, it was alleged that the county secretary had been running county affairs. This should not have been the case. When the governor is absent, the deputy governor should be in charge. If both are absent, it should fall to the Speaker of the Assembly. And if necessary, a by-election can be held".

He goes on to stress that if a county secretary is seen to be carrying out duties meant for the deputy governor, it creates the perception - and possibly the reality - of a power vacuum.

Tanga also pointed out that the MCAs should have been at the forefront of demanding accountability from the County Executive.

Their silence, he argued, raised concerns about the Assembly's commitment to its oversight role.

Maimuna agreed, adding that there may be an underlying fear among the MCAs - a reluctance to question the executive - that is hampering their effectiveness.

Laban on the other hand criticised what he called a "slumbering County Assembly" that has failed to exercise its vital oversight function.