Comedian-turned-activist Eric Omondi has once again found himself on the wrong side of the law after he was arrested at the Nairobi National Archives while collecting signatures for his campaign to reduce Kenya’s 47 counties to just eight.
Omondi’s latest push is part of his wider Punguza Mzigo campaign, through which he is seeking public backing for constitutional changes aimed at reducing what he considers an expensive and bloated system of government.
He is targeting one million signatures and wants the proposed changes subjected to a referendum.
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Why Eric Wants 47 Counties Reduced
Omondi has repeatedly argued that Kenya is over-represented and that taxpayers are carrying the cost of too many leaders and government structures.
His proposal would replace the 47 counties with eight larger regional units, while also seeking to abolish positions including senators, women representatives and some nominated seats.
He has argued that money saved from reducing government could instead be channelled into services such as education.
The activist has maintained that devolution was intended to bring services closer to Kenyans but has instead created additional layers of leadership and expenditure.
Jalango Questions Whether The Plan Can Work
However, the proposal has also attracted scepticism, with Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwour, popularly known as Jalang'o, questioning its practicality.
Jalango’s argument is that even if Omondi successfully collects the required signatures, the proposal would still have to go through the constitutional process, including Parliament.
That creates a major political hurdle because the lawmakers expected to consider changes affecting the country’s political structure could themselves be among those whose positions would be abolished.
In simple terms, Jalango’s position is that MPs cannot realistically be expected to vote themselves out of office.
Eric’s Arrest Adds More Drama
Omondi’s arrest at the National Archives has now added another dramatic chapter to a campaign that has already generated considerable public debate.
The comedian has built a reputation for using bold public actions to push political and social issues, having previously been arrested during protests over the Finance Bill.
With the signature drive now gaining renewed attention, the biggest question remains whether Omondi can convince enough Kenyans to support his proposal—and, more importantly, whether the constitutional and political hurdles ahead can be overcome.
