The National Assembly’s Committee on Finance and National Planning, led by its Vice Chair, Amb. Langat Benjamin Kipkirui, conducted public hearings in Siaya on a series of amendment bills aimed at refining the country’s fiscal and economic policies.
The event took place at the IEBC Hall within the County Commissioner’s offices, attracting a diverse audience eager to share their opinions.
The public hearings focused on six key amendment bills; Public Finance Management (Amendment) No. 3 Bill 2024, Public Finance Management (Amendment) No. 4 Bill 2024, Public Procurement and Disposal Act (Amendment) Bill 2024, Business Laws (Amendment) Bill 2024, Tax Procedures (Amendment) Bill 2024 and Tax Laws (Amendment) Bill 2024.
Langat emphasized that the feedback gathered during the hearings would be instrumental in shaping the committee’s report to Parliament.
“The National Assembly’s email remains open for any citizen who wishes to contribute towards these amendment bills. All inputs will be considered during our deliberations,” he assured.
The committee has divided its efforts into two teams to optimize resources, with one group covering the coastal counties and the other focused on the Western-Nyanza region, which includes Siaya, Kericho, and Bungoma.
“Due to resource constraints, we cannot cover all 47 counties at once,” Langat explained.
“However, by 2027, we aim to have engaged every county in this important legislative process,” he added.
During the forum, participants urged the committee to address pressing economic concerns. They called for reduction or removal of taxes on agricultural inputs to support the viability of farming businesses and abolish taxes on retirees’ pensions, a matter they described as highly emotive.
“We have taken note of all that the public has said here,” Langat affirmed adding; “We will compile a comprehensive report and proceed to the next stage of the legislative process, which is the second reading of the bills,” said Langat.
The hearings underscore the National Assembly’s commitment to fostering public participation in legislative development, ensuring that policies reflect the needs and aspirations of Kenyans across the country.
As discussions advance, citizens are encouraged to continue contributing their views through official channels, ensuring that their voices are included in shaping the nation’s economic future.
By Calvin Otieno
