As we celebrate 14 years since the adoption of the Constitution, discussions about Kenya’s political structure, particularly around overrepresentation, have resurfaced. Many Kenyans argue that there are too many positions in the National Assembly, Senate, and county assemblies.

However, the real issue isn’t the number of representatives but the failure of politicians to perform their duties as outlined in the Constitution.

The Constitution was designed with strong checks and balances. It established devolution, bringing government closer to the people, and created structures for oversight and accountability. But these goals have been undermined by widespread corruption and political interference.

MPs, senators, and ward representatives have largely failed in their oversight roles. Instead of holding the executive accountable, many have been co-opted into supporting the very institutions they are supposed to monitor.

Rather than representing their constituents, they have allowed themselves to be absorbed into political gamesmanship, ignoring their core responsibility – serving the people.

The call to reduce the number of counties or representatives is misguided. We don’t need fewer counties; we need better leadership. Rather than scaling back representation, what Kenya needs is enhanced accountability mechanisms.

The solution lies in strengthening oversight and enforcing the rule of law, not dismantling the very structures meant to serve the people.

— Elijah Maingi is a Political Commentator