Ruto’s privatisation plan of 11 parastatals company has been delt a huge blow by a Nairobi Court.
In his ruling Justice Mwita noted that Ruto’s privatisation petition raises substantial constitutional and legal issues of public importance that require critical examination and consideration by the court.
“I am satisfied that the petition raises substantial constitutional and legal issues of public importance that require critical examination and consideration by the court.” Justice Mwita noted in a statement.
He ordered that the pleadings be served on all parties immediately.
The respondents are required to file responses to the petition within 5 days after service.
The petitioner will then have 5 days after service, to file and serve a supplementary affidavit, if need be, together with written submissions to the petition not exceeding 10 pages.
The respondent will then have 5 days after service to file and serve written submissions to the petition not exceeding 10 pages.
According to Mwita, highlighting of submissions will be done on 6th February 2024 at 11 am.
“A conservatory order is hereby issued suspending implementation of section 21(1) of the Privatization Act 2023 and or any decisions made pursuant to that section, until 6th February 2024 GIVEN under my hand and seal of the Honourable court this 4th Day of December 2023.” Said Mwita in his remarks.
Kenya’s National Treasury had unveiled new privatisation programme. State to divest from 11 entities including Kenya Pipeline Company.
Ruto’s privatisation Entities include:
1. Kenya Literature Bureau
2. Kenyatta International Convention Centre
3. National Oil Corporation
4. Kenya Seed Company Ltd
5. Mwea Rice Mills
6. Western Kenya Rice Mills Ltd
7. Kenya Pipeline Co.
8. New Kenya Cooperative Creameries
9. Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers Ltd
10. Rivatex East Africa Ltd.
11. Numerical Machining Complex.
The plan by the Kenya Kwanza Gov’t to privatise the above parastatals had raised concerns amongst Kenyans. It fate now remains with the court.
