The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Local Government, Ben Kumumanya, has approved the administration of oaths of office to local council leaders in local languages, ending a long-standing challenge that has often turned swearing-in ceremonies into moments of embarrassment and public ridicule for some elected officials.
In a circular dated May 25th, 2026, addressed to Chief Administrative Officers, Town Clerks and Sub-county Chiefs, Kumumanya said the Ministry had received several inquiries on whether councillors could take their oaths in local languages, considering that they are already permitted to conduct council business and deliberations in languages understood by their communities.
The guidance comes after years of complaints that many councillors, particularly at the LC III and parish levels, struggled to read and pronounce English words contained in the oath.
During several swearing-in ceremonies across the country, leaders frequently stumbled over some words.
For some councilors, even reading the rest of the English text proved difficult, turning what should be a solemn constitutional exercise into an awkward spectacle.
The situation often attracted laughter from members of the public and social media users.
Kumumanya noted that allowing leaders to take statutory oaths in languages they fully understand is consistent with these principles and helps ensure they appreciate the obligations and responsibilities they assume upon taking office.