Residents in Kisii County have expressed mixed reactions to the proposed sale of government shares in Safaricom PLC, with some offering conditional support while others raised concerns over transparency, accountability and data protection.
The views were presented during ongoing public hearings held at Kisii Agricultural Training College on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. The session was attended by a delegation from a joint Committee of the National Assembly led by Hon. Dr. Daniel Manduku.
Conditional support tied to debt reduction and infrastructure
Several participants indicated willingness to support the proposed sale, provided the proceeds are used transparently and for clearly defined public purposes.
One resident, David Nyandusi, said he would only support the transaction if the funds are directed toward settling existing government debts, while also prioritising essential services such as education.
“I can only support the sale on condition that the money will be used to settle the existing debts by the government. But major focus should also be on basic needs like education, not airports,” he said.
Tom O. from Kitutu Chache South described the proposal as prudent, arguing that infrastructure development remains critical for economic growth. However, he sought assurances that the proposed Infrastructure Fund would strictly serve its stated objectives.
“We are seeking assurance that the proposed Infrastructure Fund will be used for the said purpose and nothing else,” he said.
Robert Omose also expressed support in principle but questioned whether projects would be implemented as outlined. He urged Members of Parliament to relay residents’ concerns during deliberations in the National Assembly.
Skepticism over governance and public interest
Despite some support, a section of residents remained skeptical about the proposal.
One participant questioned how the government would safeguard citizens’ personal data in the event of majority ownership by a foreign investor.
“How sure can we be that our personal data will be protected if we sell majority ownership to a foreign company?” the resident asked.
Representatives speaking on behalf of the Deaf Community opposed the proposal, describing it as another potential avenue for mismanagement of public funds.
Others, including Ronald Omwenga and Joel Nyandusi, said they do not support the sale due to lack of clarity on how the proceeds would be safeguarded and distributed.
Vivian Omariba from Nyaribari Chache questioned the allocation structure of the anticipated proceeds, particularly the proportion earmarked for debt settlement, suggesting broader distribution toward infrastructure projects across the country.
Bosire Omuchiri called for stronger fiscal discipline, arguing that asset sales alone may not offer a sustainable solution to Kenya’s debt challenges.
“Is this money going to be used prudently? Let us find a lasting solution to our fiscal problems. What we are doing is a temporary resolution. We ought to set up stringent austerity measures on our national spending if we are to come out of debt,” he said.
MPs assure objective reporting
Members of Parliament present at the hearing, including Hon. Abdi Shuriye, Hon. Peter Kaluma and Hon. Adipo Okuome, assured residents that their views would be incorporated into the committee’s final report to the National Assembly.
The public participation forums form part of the broader consultative process on the proposed divestment of government shares in Safaricom PLC, one of Kenya’s most profitable listed companies.
The final outcome will depend on parliamentary review, stakeholder input, and the government’s stated objectives regarding debt management, infrastructure financing, and public interest safeguards.
