The National Assembly’s Public Debt and Privatization Committee, led by Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, on Saturday held a public participation forum in Kakamega County over the proposed sale of 15 per cent of the government’s 35 per cent stake in Safaricom PLC.
Addressing the lawmakers, Kenya National Chamber of Commerce regional chairperson Nickel Tarel backed the proposal, saying it would guarantee Safaricom’s independence from government control and raise funds to complete stalled development projects.
However, echoing concerns raised by other participants, Tarel called for clear guidelines to ring-fence the proceeds and ensure prudent use of the funds.
“Give access to SMEs to undertake the construction of the said development projects targeted by the funds to be raised from the sale,” he suggested.
Some residents opposed the proposal. Farmer Shem Lwanga told the committee he did not support the sale, saying it would lock out citizens despite their role as independent investors.
Another participant, Robert Malemba, also opposed the move, claiming it appeared to be driven by fear of public backlash over increased taxes.
“This may set a wrong precedent in handling matters of national interest,” Malemba remarked.
A teacher identified as Mirriam said there was widespread public mistrust toward the government, citing past cases where billions of shillings were allegedly lost without accountability, raising doubts about the real intentions behind the proposed sale.
Village elder Kenneth Tovoko supported the proposal, saying it could help build infrastructure and support education as intended.
Key concerns raised during the meeting included accountability, lack of safeguards to prevent misuse of the funds, and a perception among some residents that supporting government projects felt like participating in corruption.
Responding to the submissions, Nyakach MP Aduma Owuor said the committee had taken note of the issues raised.
“We understand the concerns raised, especially the issue of accountability, and as MPs we shall endeavor to ensure that all these concerns are sufficiently addressed,” he said.
Nyaribari Masaba MP Daniel Manduku said the feedback from residents would guide lawmakers if the proposal proceeds.
“What I gather is that if this sale were to proceed, the money meant for infrastructural development of the marginalized regions must be ring-fenced. When we go to Parliament to make a decision on this matter, this shall definitely be a guiding factor in ensuring that the people’s needs are fulfilled,” Manduku said.
He also stressed the need for part of the funds to support socially viable projects beyond infrastructure.
Wajir East MP Daud Aden, who explained the fiscal implications of the proposed sale, assured residents their views would shape the final decision.
“We aren’t making a decision here. Ours was to listen, and we have heard your very valid points and concerns about this imminent sale, and it is our duty to confer your views to the Nation Assembly,” Daud said.
Kaluma said the committee would consider all submissions from the public forums.
“We’ve been through very many forums on this matter, and we are still continuing with the public participation. I am certain that by the end of this exercise, we shall have sufficient information to guide our decision as a Committee, and eventually as the National Assembly,” he concluded.
