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County Secretaries Forum has started establishing measures for power transition in the devolved units ahead of the August 9 polls.

With over 20 governors serving their second and final terms, CSF noted that there was a need to plan  for a smooth transition.

During this period, county secretaries are mandated to oversee preparations of transition, handing over reports by State departments, local authorities and other public entities.

CSF chair Dr Ahmed Galgalo, also the Isiolo County Secretary, said they intend to convene a major summit for all his colleagues to deliberate on the same.

“County secretaries play a major role in ensuring a seamless handover of power. The plans are in top gear,” said Galgalo.

Smooth transition

According to Galgalo, there had been challenges in some counties where governors were impeached, saying such wrangles stalled smooth transition.

Speaking in Nakuru  yesterday after holding the meeting organised by the Intergovernmental Relations Technical Committee (IGTRC), Galgalo singled out Nairobi and Wajir counties where the handover process was marred with power struggles.

He noted that with this challenge, the forum will have to build capacity to members in managing transitions so to forestall such in the future.

“We will hold another meeting before the polls, in a month or so,  which will require a lot of consultation and training from experts and lawyers to ensure all goes well,” said Galgalo.

IGTRC Acting chair John Burugu called for the amendment to the County Government Act to strengthen office of the County Secretary, saying it mirrors the office of the head of Civil Service at the national level.

Burugu notes that the current Act limits powers of the County Secretary office.