By Neville Oduor
The Kipchoge Keino Complex in Kapsabet buzzed with enthusiasm today as residents of Nandi County turned out in large numbers to participate in Day 2 of the public hearings on the Finance Bill 2025 and the Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill 2025.
Organized by the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Finance and National Planning, the event marked a significant step in Kenya’s legislative process, ensuring citizens’ voices shape the country’s financial future.
The forum, which kicked off at 10:00 AM, saw a diverse group of attendees, including local leaders, traders, and youth, engaging in constructive dialogue.
Sessional Chair Hon. David Mboni opened the session, emphasizing the importance of informed participation.
“We urge the public to carefully review these Bills and avoid spreading misinformation. The Finance Bill is crucial for raising revenue to fund our budget, and we must look at it alongside the budget for an objective review,” Mboni stated, setting a positive tone for the day.
Building on the momentum from Day 1, where Busia and Migori counties provided valuable insights, Nandi residents offered practical suggestions to balance revenue generation with economic growth.
Many appreciated the committee’s efforts to regulate virtual assets, with one participant noting, “This Bill will bring transparency to digital finance, which is good for small businesses like mine.”
The Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill, aimed at curbing misuse while fostering innovation, received widespread support for its anti-money laundering measures.
The committee’s legal counsel provided clear highlights of both Bills, ensuring attendees understood their implications.
The turnout in Nandi, including contributions from notable figures like Samson Cheragei, Nandi Seator, showcased the community’s commitment to shaping policies that impact their lives.
As the public participation exercise continues across counties, the National Assembly remains optimistic about crafting inclusive legislation that reflects the aspirations of all Kenyans, paving the way for a robust economic framework in 2025.