Parliament began public consultations on the divestiture at the Mavoko NG-CDF offices in Machakos County. The sessions aim to inform citizens about the plan and gather their views before any final decision is made.
During the consultations, many participants questioned what the sale would mean for the government’s influence over Safaricom. Some argued that reducing government ownership could lead to higher transaction costs for Kenyans if foreign investors gain more control. Others urged that ordinary citizens should have an opportunity to buy shares locally, suggesting that a portion of the shares be reserved for Kenyans through the Nairobi Securities Exchange.
Some residents supported the sale, noting that it could unlock resources for development. However, there were calls for clear accountability in how the proceeds would be managed. Many argued that directing the funds to the National Treasury rather than a separate fund would ensure better transparency and control over spending.
Concerns were also raised about the potential impact on critical sectors. While infrastructure development is a priority, some participants recommended allocating a share of the funds to health services, including support for patients with conditions such as cancer.