Paul Smoke, professor of public finance and planning and director of international programs at NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service.

Following the post-2007 election violence that rocked Kenya, a new constitution adopted by popular referendum requires a fundamental restructuring of the governmental system. A prominent aspect of the reforms is the creation of new county governments. Although local governments have log existed, the new constitution mandates a powerful devolution that fundamentally differs from the forms of decentralization that have evolved since the colonial period. The new system includes positive political, administrative and fiscal features, but potential issues and risks are also evident. With elections coming in March, what benefits, and challenges, are likely to emerge as the constitutional mandate is implemented?

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