Daadab Member of Parliament (MP) Farah Maalim has called out rampant corruption in the handling of Kenya’s Equalisation Fund, saying it is a major setback to development in marginalised counties.

Speaking in the National Assembly on Thursday, June 19, 2025, during debate on the Division of Revenue Bill (No. 10 of 2025), Maalim expressed concern that the fund, which was created to uplift regions left behind since independence, is being misused by corrupt leaders.

“I support this bill, but I must also speak out against the corruption that is so common in our country,” Maalim said, adding, “You really have to wonder what is happening to law and order in Kenya.”

The Equalisation Fund was introduced under the 2010 Constitution to allocate 0.5% of national revenue to marginalised areas. However, Maalim said the money is not reaching the intended communities and warned that county governments are now trying to control the funds for their own gain.

“That fund was supposed to help counties that were left behind from colonial days. Now, county governments want to lay their hands on it,” he said. “The same corrupt people are in Parliament, in the executive, and in charge of public resources. That’s why Kenya continues to suffer.”

This comes after members of the National Assembly approved the second reading of the Kenya Roads (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill, 2025, during a plenary session where lawmakers voted to pass the proposed legislation during its second reading.

The move brings the country closer to slashing the terms of directors-general of key road agencies from the current 10 years to a maximum of six.

Maalim’s remarks come at a time when many Kenyans, especially the youth, are protesting against government mismanagement. The former deputy speaker went on to say that the misuse of public funds is linked to the rising levels of poverty in the country.

“We are dealing with high poverty levels. If the money set aside for development was used well, the lives of Kenyans would improve,” he said.

This highlights a growing divide between the government and young Kenyans, many of whom are demanding accountability through street protests,” he added.

The decision was made on Thursday, June 19, 2025, .