Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma has assented to the Cooperative Societies Amendment Bill aimed at strengthening governance of the cooperative movement.
The assentment ceremony, held at the county headquarters, was attended by members of the County Assembly, representatives of cooperative societies, and various stakeholders from finance and agricultural sectors.
Governor Mutuma, while speaking at the ceremony, described the moment as a significant milestone, marking a turning point in efforts to modernize and strengthen the cooperative movement in the county.
“This amendment bill is a symbol of progress and commitment to the people of Meru. For years, previous regimes have tried and failed to push this crucial reform through. Today, we’ve made it a reality,” Governor Mutuma said.
The amended bill introduces vital structural and policy changes aimed at improving governance, transparency, and financial stability in cooperative societies across the county.
It also seeks to streamline registration processes, enhance member protection, and align cooperative operations with modern economic trends and national laws.
The amendment removed a controversial clause that required the establishment of a Cooperative Tribunal within the county, a tribunal which was in conflict with national laws, which mandate that cooperative disputes be handled by the cooperative tribunal under the national government.
Cooperatives director Mugambi Sandi, said that the amended bill now provides for Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms.
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“These will enable cooperatives to resolve internal conflicts amicably and efficiently before resorting to legal action. ADR is a game-changer for our cooperatives. It promotes harmony, saves time, and strengthens internal systems by allowing members to find solutions within their own structures,” Sandi stated.
County assembly Cooperatives committee chairman, also present during the ceremony, said the Assembly will support the executive in implementing the new law effectively.
“The County Assembly of Meru remains fully committed to enacting more transformative legislation to ensure efficient service delivery and economic empowerment for the people of Meru,” the MCA emphasized.
Coffee theft
At the same time, Governor Mutuma called on security agencies to heighten vigilance and ensure the safety of Meru residents, particularly farmers and cooperative members.
He expressed concern that coffee farmers were losing their produce to theft, with several incidents of death reported.
“We cannot afford to lose lives over harvests and hard-earned produce. Security must be a top priority, especially in our rural and farming areas. Our people must feel safe,” the Governor said.
He further directed that any cooperative society management team that fails to offer adequate security for its coffee should face immediate disciplinary action, stressing that accountability must be upheld at all levels.
The Governor also urged the County Assembly to move with speed in vetting and approving the nominees for the County Executive Committee Members (CECs).
By John Majau.
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