Vihiga: The joint sitting of the Departmental Committee on Finance and National Planning and the Select Committee on Public Debt and Privatization held a public hearing at Praise Center Church Mbale in Vihiga County to discuss the government’s proposal to sell part of its shares in Safaricom PLC. The plan involves selling 15% of the 35% shares the government currently holds in Safaricom, with the goal of raising Sh204,000,000,000 to fund development and reduce public debt.
According to Kenya News Agency, the hearing aimed to gather the opinions of Vihiga County residents on the proposed sale. Derrick Mahaya, a resident of Hamisi Sub County Tambua ward, expressed support for the plan, suggesting it would alleviate the tax burden on citizens and improve infrastructure through projects such as road and airport construction.
In contrast, Felix Adogo from Vihiga Sub County voiced opposition, citing concerns about potential misappropriation of funds and the lack of local leadership participation in the discussion. He questioned the feasibility of the government’s promised benefits to citizens.
John Ishuga, a civil society member present at the event, criticized the plan to sell shares of a profit-making entity, labeling it a potential scam due to the government’s failure to rejuvenate non-performing entities.
Karachuonyo Member of Parliament, Adipo Okuome, clarified that the proposal originated from the executive branch, not the National Assembly, and emphasized their role in gathering public opinion. He expressed satisfaction with the feedback received and pledged to submit the residents’ views to the appropriate authorities.
Balambala Member of Parliament, Hon Abdi Shurie, addressed concerns regarding the potential sale to Vodacom, emphasizing Vodacom’s expertise in the communication sector as a key factor in the decision. He assured that the shares would be sold at a premium price to ensure maximum value.
Nyaribari Masaba Member of Parliament, Dr. Daniel Manduku, who chaired the committee, concluded the hearing by promising that all opinions shared would be relayed to Parliament. He urged residents to trust the process and assured them that their voices would be heard.
