Civil society organizations from Kiambu and Makueni counties have opposed a proposal by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi to review the timelines for public participation, arguing that such a move would undermine citizens’ constitutional rights.

Speaking in Wote Town, Makueni County, on Thursday, July 23, 2026, representatives of the Kiambu Social Accountability Network (KISNET) and the Makueni Civil Society Network (MACSON) criticized Mudavadi’s reported call for legislation to shorten the period allocated for public participation in government decision-making.

The groups said reducing the time available for public engagement would weaken meaningful citizen involvement in shaping government policies, legislation, and development projects.

Instead, they argued that Kenyans need adequate time to scrutinize and contribute to decisions that directly affect their lives.

“The Constitution does not grant public participation as a favor to citizens; it guarantees it as a right. When a senior government official proposes shortening that process, it raises serious concerns about the direction the government intends to take this country,” said lawyer and governance specialist Jess Whesly.

Remarks by govt officials

Whesly further criticized what he described as a pattern of concerning remarks from government officials.”It is not once or twice that we have heard government officials make such reckless statements,” he said, adding that any attempt to curtail public participation could become “a roadmap to dictatorship.”

MACSON Coordinator Joseph Kioko questioned Mudavadi’s apparent change in position, noting that he had previously championed inclusive governance, transparency, and social accountability alongside the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

“How has he changed his position now that he serves in senior government?” Kioko posed.

Pascal Wambua also urged Mudavadi to uphold the Constitution despite political differences.

“This is what we want to tell Mr. Mudavadi: even if he has no respect for us, let him respect the Constitution. We understand he occupies what we consider an unconstitutional office. He should first address us after he has resigned,” Wambua said.

The two organizations called on the government to strengthen rather than weaken public participation mechanisms, emphasizing that effective public consultation is essential for transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance.

They maintained that any reforms to the process should enhance citizen engagement rather than limit it.