The County Assembly Service Board (CASB) plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of County Assemblies across all 47 counties in Kenya. Established under Section 12 of the County Governments Act, the Board is responsible for providing services, managing staff, and overseeing administrative functions within the County Assembly.
🔹 Membership of the County Assembly Service Board
For the County Assembly Service Board to function effectively, it consists of the following members:
1️⃣ The Speaker of the County Assembly – Chairperson of the Board.
2️⃣ Vice-Chairperson – Elected from two nominated members of the County Assembly.
3️⃣ Two County Assembly Members – Nominated by political parties based on their representation in the Assembly.
4️⃣ Two Experienced Public Members – One man and one woman appointed by the County Assembly (must not be MCAs).
5️⃣ County Assembly Clerk – Secretary to the Board.
📌 Key Requirements for Board Members (Public Members):
✔ Must be a Kenyan citizen.
✔ Hold a degree from a university recognized in Kenya.
✔ Have at least 10 years of experience in public affairs.
✔ Meet leadership and integrity standards under Chapter Six of the Constitution.
🔹 Removal from Office
A public member of the Board can be removed for:
❌ Violating the Constitution.
❌ Inability to perform duties (e.g., health reasons).
❌ Bankruptcy.
❌ Conviction for an offense leading to a sentence of over six months.
📌 How Removal Happens:
Any person may petition the County Assembly for the removal of a Board member. The Standing Orders of the County Assembly guide the removal process.
🔹 Functions of the County Assembly Service Board
The CASB’s main role is to ensure the County Assembly functions efficiently. Key responsibilities include:
1️⃣ Providing Services and Facilities
✔ Ensures that County Assembly members and staff have adequate resources and facilities for efficient operations.
📌 Example:
The Board ensures offices, ICT systems, and transport facilities are in place for County Assembly operations.
✅ Key Function:
- Enhances operational efficiency in the Assembly.
2️⃣ Managing and Supervising County Assembly Staff
✔ Establishes offices in the County Assembly Service.
✔ Appoints, supervises, and monitors staff performance.
✔ Reviews terms of service and employment conditions for staff.
📌 Example:
The Board appoints clerks, researchers, and administrative staff to assist the County Assembly in executing its duties.
✅ Key Function:
- Ensures proper staffing and workforce management.
3️⃣ Preparing and Managing the County Assembly Budget
✔ Prepares annual budgets and submits estimates for approval.
✔ Exercises budgetary control over County Assembly expenditures.
✔ Ensures funds are used efficiently and accounted for properly.
📌 Example:
The Board prepares the budget for Assembly operations, ensuring funding for sittings, committee work, and legislative activities.
✅ Key Function:
- Promotes accountability and transparency in Assembly finances.
4️⃣ Promoting Parliamentary Democracy and Public Participation
✔ Initiates programs to educate the public on County Assembly operations.
✔ Encourages citizen involvement in legislative processes.
✔ Organizes capacity-building programs for MCAs and staff.
📌 Example:
The Board organizes civic education forums to help residents understand how county laws and policies affect them.
✅ Key Function:
- Enhances public awareness and strengthens democratic governance.
5️⃣ Ensuring Compliance with the Constitution and Other Laws
✔ Ensures that County Assembly operations align with constitutional values and statutory requirements.
✔ Oversees ethical conduct and integrity standards among Assembly members and staff.
📌 Example:
The Board ensures that all Assembly members comply with Chapter Six of the Constitution on Leadership and Integrity.
✅ Key Function:
- Maintains high ethical standards in the County Assembly.
🔹 Additional Functions of the County Assembly Service Board
The County Assembly Services Act expands the Board’s responsibilities to include:
✔ Supervising and directing the administration of Assembly services.
✔ Developing policies and strategies for the Assembly’s growth.
✔ Initiating training programs for MCAs and staff.
✔ Promoting public awareness and participation in County Assembly affairs.
✔ Coordinating intergovernmental relations on County Assembly matters.
🔹 Role of the Secretary to the Board (County Assembly Clerk)
The County Clerk serves as:
✔ The Chief Executive Officer of the Board.
✔ The Accounting Officer responsible for budget control.
✔ The Administrative Head of the County Public Service.
✔ The Custodian of Assembly records.
✔ The Implementer of Board decisions.
📌 Example:
The County Clerk prepares and submits reports on the Assembly’s budget performance and expenditure.
✅ Key Function:
- Ensures smooth administrative operations in the County Assembly.
📌 Conclusion: Why the County Assembly Service Board is Important
The County Assembly Service Board (CASB) plays a critical role in ensuring smooth operations, transparency, and accountability in County Assemblies.
📌 Key Takeaways:
✔ Manages County Assembly staff and services.
✔ Prepares and controls the Assembly’s budget.
✔ Promotes good governance and public participation.
✔ Ensures Assembly operations comply with laws and regulations.
✔ Facilitates training and development for MCAs and staff.
📌 Final Thought:
By ensuring proper governance, financial accountability, and efficient service delivery, the CASB strengthens devolution and enhances public trust in county governments. 🚀
