Residents of Kwale County have voiced strong opinions on the proposed Privatization Bill, 2025, during a public participation forum held at the Kwale Cultural Centre in Matuga.
The session, led by National Assembly Finance Committee Chairperson Hon. Kimani Kuria (Molo), provided a platform for locals to express both support and concerns regarding the proposed legislation.
A dominant concern raised by participants was the fate of workers once privatization takes effect. Residents insisted on the need for strong labour laws to safeguard employees against mass layoffs and possible exploitation by private investors.
Others stressed the importance of transparency in the privatization process, warning that the exercise must serve the public interest rather than enrich a few individuals.
Additionally, residents proposed that communities hosting enterprises earmarked for privatization should be guaranteed a percentage of shares.
“We are the custodians of these assets. If they are to be sold, locals must also benefit either directly or through an elaborate Corporate Social Responsibility,” one participant said.
