Raila Declares Support for One Man, One Shilling Formula

Azimio leader Raila Odinga has declared his support for the ‘one man one vote one shilling’ revenue distribution formula push.

Speaking in a presser on Thursday, June 6, Raila said the formula seeks to ensure fair distribution of resources among the 47 counties.

While receiving the resolutions from the Limuru III meeting, Raila said the formula does not target specific regions as speculated by some people,

“One of the points that was discussed in Limuru III is the issue of resource sharing. This thing has misrepresented as if it is discriminating some parts of our country. It is not a question of discrimination; we want to ensure that each and every Kenyan gets a fair share of resources created by our sweat,” he said.

Raila Defends His Position

The former Prime Minister explained that the formula is good and will ensure no county is left behind in terms of development.

“It cannot be right that some children get more money in bursary than others in other parts of the country and I think this is a conversation that if we have openly, we will be able to convince majority of our people that this is the right way to go,” Raila said.

He emphasized that the formula would ensure fairness for every Kenyan, adding that this is why it was included in the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) bill.

“We want to ensure that every Kenyan is fairly treated, which is why we agree with the phrase ‘one man, one vote, one shilling.’ I totally agree with it. I’m not a populist, and I speak my mind openly,” Raila said.

Constitution & Cost of Living

He stated that the 2010 Constitution needs to be reviewed, especially the devolution chapter.

The ODM leader explained that the Constitution talks about equity in resource sharing, not equality, thus justifying the ‘one man, one vote, one shilling’ model.

“That means you must consider the number of people where they are because services are provided to the people,” he said.

“I know it may not be popular with some but let us have this conversation as a nation.”

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Additionally, Raila said he will address the high cost of living and the proposals contained in the Finance Bill 2025.

He stated that he is aware of the burden placed on Kenyans and how the bill will further increase the cost of living.

“I know that Kenyans are hurting seriously, but I am going to talk about that on another occasion. I know they are hurting currently, and the proposals contained in the Finance Bill are going to add a lot of burden on Kenyans,” he said.

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Working with Gachagua

Raila’s statement comes at a time when Deputy President (DP) Rigathi Gachagua is facing significant opposition from a section of Kenya Kwanza politicians over his support for the one man, one vote, one shilling revenue-sharing model.

Speaking about Gachagua, Raila stated that he is ready to work with all leaders in the country, regardless of their political affiliation.

“I am working with everybody in this country, nobody specifically. Gachagua is a member of the government, and you know the government pledged to support my African Union Commission chairperson bid. So, he has seen the light; he is a Saul that has now become a Paul,” Raila said.

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