Call for Private Sector Involvement in Law-Making
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has emphasized the need for private sector involvement in the legislative process, urging businesses to move beyond passive observation and actively contribute to shaping laws. He stressed that the responsibility of law-making is not solely confined to Parliament but requires a collaborative effort.
During his closing address at the 8th KEPSA-Speaker’s Roundtable in Mombasa, Wetang’ula highlighted the importance of partnership between the government and the private sector. The event brought together business leaders, industry captains, and parliamentary leadership, including committee chairs, for two days of panel discussions.
“Legislation is not the preserve of Parliament. In the process of developing laws, we should work together to support this country,” Wetang’ula stated, underlining the value of collaborative governance.
He referenced the public debate around the JKIA expansion project, noting that the private sector’s perspective was not prominently featured during the discussions. “I have reviewed the documents, and I did not see the issues that were circulating publicly, but the private sector remained largely silent,” he said. He encouraged the private sector to contribute to public understanding, especially as the country seeks to upgrade its airport to remain competitive.
Wetang’ula also urged parliamentary committees to maintain regular engagement with KEPSA and other stakeholders, pledging his support for such initiatives. The closed-door discussions, which extended into late hours, focused on several key areas:
- Lowering the cost of doing business
- Enhancing productivity in the age of Artificial Intelligence
- The role of governance in economic development
He further urged KEPSA to ensure that its feedback and critiques are based on evidence, to facilitate actionable outcomes. This approach would help in creating more effective policies that align with the needs of both the government and the private sector.
In his closing remarks, Wetang’ula said: “Let us bake the cake together, let us eat the cake together. This country has great potential, but we must embrace change.” His message was clear: collective effort and shared responsibility are essential for national progress.
He also called for trust in government efforts to deliver on national priorities, warning that persistent distractions could slow progress. By fostering a culture of collaboration and transparency, the government and private sector can work hand-in-hand to achieve common goals.
The discussions underscored the importance of continuous dialogue and mutual respect between different sectors of society. As the nation moves forward, it is crucial that all stakeholders, including the private sector, play an active role in shaping the future of the country.