Public Hearings Begin On Privatization Bill As MPs Tour Counties

The Departmental Committee on Finance and National Planning, together with the Select Committee on Public Debt and Privatization, has kicked off public hearings on the Privatization Bill (National Assembly Bill No. 36 of 2025) in different counties.

On Monday, committee members led by Finance Committee Chairperson Kimani Kuria visited Tana River County, where they met residents at Hola County Hall to collect public views on the proposed law.

The bill, sponsored by the Leader of Majority in the National Assembly, seeks to repeal the current Privatization Act and establish a new regulatory structure for privatization in Kenya. Among the key proposals is the creation of a Privatization Authority that will oversee the development and execution of a national privatization programme.

Speaking during the session, Hon. Kuria said the new law is important in filling gaps in the current privatization process.

“Privatization is crucial in enhancing efficiency in government-owned entities. It also ensures reduction in budgetary strain as well as relieving taxpayers,” he said, adding that the bill contains strong accountability measures.

The consultation attracted varied views from locals. Some residents supported the bill, arguing that privatization could revive struggling state-owned companies by attracting better management and funding. However, they called for transparency in how the process is carried out, especially in handling proceeds from the sale of public assets to avoid corruption and misuse of money.

Others raised concerns about possible job losses if public institutions are transferred to private investors. They feared that privatization could lead to staff layoffs and insecurity for workers.

Kuria assured participants that all public submissions will be included in the committee report before the bill is presented in Parliament for debate.

The committee is expected to continue with similar public forums in other counties in the coming days.