The National Assembly is in the process of enacting three critical Bills aimed at tackling corruption, enhancing fair business competitiveness and making Kenya a more attractive destination for Foreign Direct Investment. The proposed laws are the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal (Amendment) Bill, 2024, the Conflict of Interest Bill, 2024 and the Whistleblower Protection Bill, 2023.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula said the legislation would be key in facilitating the economic advancement of the country. Speaking during the Speaker’s roundtable with the Kenya Private Sector Association (Kepsa) in Naivasha, Wetang’ula explained that the Conflict of Interest Bill, 2024 provides a robust legal framework for the management of conflict of interests in the discharge of official duties by public officers.
He said the whistle-blower law will significantly increase collaborative efforts between the private sector and government to combat corruption and promote more transparent, accountable and ethical business practices.
Amicable solutions
The Public Procurement and Asset Disposal (Amendment) Bill, 2024, he said, seeks to reduce the cost of tendering by simplifying and computerising the evaluation of tenders.
“The legislative proposal further seeks to enhance the guiding principles to be adhered to in Public Procurement and Asset Disposal by state organs and public entities,” he explained.
National Assembly Clerk Samuel Njoroge expressed concern over the raising of cases in court filed by Kepsa opposing legislations enacted by the House.
“Courts should be the last resort by Kepsa to resolve contentious issues arising from proposed legislation by the House,” opined Njoroge, urging the association to instead embrace dialogue outside courts.
Leader of the Majority Kimani Ichung’wah, acknowledged Kepsa’s valuable contribution across various policy areas and affirmed that these efforts have been instrumental in shaping policies that enhance the country’s competitiveness.
“I am confident that our joint efforts will yield actionable outcomes impacting all sectors of our economy,” said Ichung’wah.
Minority leader Junet Mohamed, expressed concern over high taxes, inadequate infrastructure and the escalating cost of power, which have led to widespread business closures and significant job losses.
“As MPs, we must strive to craft fiscal and monetary policies that promote stability, encourage investment, and support entrepreneurship,” he said.
