Flags on MCAs cars will show ‘true devolution of power’, says Embu ward rep
Runyenjes Central MCA Steve Simba. He has proposed that MCAs be allowed to fly county flags on their cars so as to illustrate the “true devolution of power” to the grassroots. PHOTO | CHARLES WANYORO | NATION MEDIA GROUP
What you need to know:
- Mr Simba said the move would boost the MCAs image so that they start being viewed as role models by residents and young children.
- The MCA said the county flag would strengthen the spirit of devolution and build the confidence of the electorate in their elected leaders.
- He said flying the flag would show real power at the village level and wherever MCAs go, “the big man will be seen there”.
- Deputy Speaker Ibrahim Swale, however, said an MCA flying a flag on a “small” car would look ridiculous.
A Member of the Embu County Assembly has proposed that MCAs fly county flags on their vehicles in order to illustrate “true devolution of power” to the grassroots.
Runyenjes Central MCA Steve Simba said flying the flag would help change the perception people at the villages have of MCAs as unimportant people.
Speaking while supporting the second reading of the Embu County Symbols Bill, 2015, Mr Simba said the county flag would strengthen the spirit of devolution and build the confidence of the electorate in their elected leaders.
The MCA, who last year caused uproar by suggesting that spouses of MCAs be given special ‘loneliness’ allowances, said a flag would help build the county image and ensure their presence was felt.
The MCA, who drives a saloon car, sent his colleagues roaring with laughter when he said the size of the car one drove was not important as long as the people saw it.
BOOST MCAS' IMAGE
Mr Simba said the move would boost the MCAs' image so that they start being viewed as role models by residents and young children.
“We have to see these things changing. We can have the elected leaders flying the flag because we are always with the people. My small vehicle with a flag will show people that I am taking them somewhere.
“We will be able to build confidence in the people. The small kids will see an MCA as an important person and not think of a flag as something that is flown by such people as President Obama alone,” said Mr Simba.
He said flying the flag would show real power at the village level and wherever MCAs go, “the big man will be seen there”.
“We will not need to be introduced as so-and-so; people will automatically recognise us. The flag would tell and market the image of the MCAs,” said Mr Simba
Deputy Speaker Ibrahim Swale, however, said an MCA flying a flag on a “small” car would look ridiculous.
“It is on very rare occasions that we see a small vehicle flying a flag. For such people, they will need to upgrade,” he said.
