Wetang'ula, MPs defend CDF amid Raila onslaught

A fresh political showdown is brewing over the Constituency Development Fund after ODM leader Raila Odinga suggested it be stripped from MPs and handed to governors.

The proposal is, however, facing fierce pushback from Parliament.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula on Friday led MPs in defending the multi-billion shilling kitty, saying it remains one of the most effective tools for grassroots development.

“NG-CDF has been a game-changer. When I first entered Parliament, it did not exist, but since its introduction, it has funded projects that have significantly changed the lives of our people. Even after I retired as a Member of Parliament, it remained in place and it is still here today,” he said.

Wetang'ula spoke during the launch of a new tuition block at St Veronica Ranje RC Comprehensive School in Kanduyi constituency.

The Speaker credited CDF with transforming the education sector and other community projects over the past two decades.

He said although the courts had once declared the fund unconstitutional, Parliament amended the law to anchor it in the constitution — a move later upheld by the Court of Appeal.

Wetang'ula praised the ruling as “a victory for grassroots development".

“Prudent use of public funds is best demonstrated through NG-CDF projects. Across the country, if you walk into any village, the most visible projects — be they classrooms, laboratories or health facilities — have been funded through NG-CDF,” he said.

The newly inaugurated block at St Veronica Ranje RC Comprehensive School features 12 modern classrooms and fully equipped administration offices.

Wetang’ula praised the Kanduyi CDF team for investing in infrastructure that directly benefits learners and teachers.

Kanduyi MP John Makali said CDF remains the most visible driver of grassroots development compared to county governments.

“Unlike many county projects, CDF investments are evident across the country — from classrooms and laboratories to health facilities. It is a model of development that people can see and appreciate,” he said.

Webuye East MP Martin Pepela accused those pushing for its transfer to counties of ignoring the realities on the ground.

“We support CDF and to those suggesting it should be reverted to counties, I say, call for a referendum and ask Kenyans if they want it scrapped. The answer will be clear,” he said.

At the Devolution Conference in Homa Bay, Raila said MPs should focus on lawmaking, representation and oversight, not implementing projects.

He said CDF in the hands of legislators offends principles of devolution and should be managed by governors alongside other key functions such as education and roads.

But MPs insist the fund’s track record — particularly in education — proves it is better run under their stewardship.