Residents of Kakamega County have called for clear accountability and safeguards in the proposed sale of part of the Government’s stake in Safaricom PLC during a public participation forum held today.
The meeting was conducted by a delegation of the National Assembly’s Public Debt and Privatization Committee led by Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament (MP)Peter Kaluma.
The committee is collecting public views on the proposal to sell 15 percent out of the Government’s 35 percent shareholding in the telecommunications company.
Addressing the committee, Kakamega County Kenya National Chamber of Commerce Chairperson Nickel Tarel backed the proposal, saying reducing government control would enhance Safaricom’s independence and efficiency. He added that proceeds from the sale could help finance stalled development projects.
However, Tarel emphasized the need for strict safeguards on the funds.
“Guidelines must be established to ring-fence the money and ensure it is properly utilized. SMEs should also be given opportunities to undertake the construction projects financed through these funds,” he said.
Not all residents supported the proposal. Shem Lwanga, a local farmer, opposed the sale, arguing that it would sideline citizens despite many being independent investors in the company.
Another resident, Robert Malemba, warned that the decision could create a dangerous precedent.
“This may set a wrong precedent in handling matters of national interest,” he said, suggesting the proposal may be influenced by public reaction to increased taxation.
A teacher from Kakamega town, identified as Mirriam, expressed mistrust in government management of public funds, noting that past losses of public money without accountability had raised doubts about the true intentions behind the sale.
Village elder Kenneth Tovoko supported the move, saying the funds could support infrastructure development and education.
Across the forum, participants raised common concerns including lack of accountability mechanisms, fear of misuse of proceeds, and the perception that public support for government projects could indirectly enable corruption.
Responding to residents’ submissions, Nyakach MP Aduma Owuor acknowledged the concerns.
“We understand the issues raised, especially on accountability, and as Members of Parliament we shall ensure they are sufficiently addressed,” he said.
Nyaribari Masaba MP Dr. Daniel Manduku noted that whether residents supported or opposed the proposal, one issue remained central.
“If this sale proceeds, the funds intended for infrastructural development, especially in marginalized regions, must be ring-fenced,” he said, adding that the matter would guide parliamentary deliberations. He also proposed that part of the funds be directed toward socially beneficial programmes beyond infrastructure.
Wajir East MP Daud Aden explained the fiscal implications of the proposed sale and assured residents their views would inform parliamentary debate.
“We are not making a decision here. Our role is to listen, and we have heard your valid concerns. It is our duty to present them to the National Assembly,” he said.
In his closing remarks, Committee Chair Kaluma assured residents their contributions would be considered.
“We have held many forums and the public participation exercise is still ongoing. By the end of this process, we shall have sufficient information to guide the committee and eventually the National Assembly in making a decision,” he said.
