Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has sparked fresh controversy over the Safaricom share sale, claiming the government has already offloaded its 15 percent stake to Vodacom despite an ongoing High Court case challenging the transaction.
In a statement, Kalonzo alleged that the deal was rushed through immediately after conservatory orders were lifted, even though the constitutional petition had been fully heard and a ruling was expected within weeks.
He warned that proceeding before the court’s determination places the entire transaction under “a cloud of unresolved constitutional questions.”
“The National Treasury proceeded to dispose of the Government’s 15% stake almost immediately after the lifting of conservatory orders,” Kalonzo said.
“Yet the matter remains before the High Court, with critical issues still awaiting determination.”
The former Vice President further argued that the Court of Appeal did not address key concerns surrounding the deal, including its legality, the adequacy of public participation, and whether the valuation was fair.
According to him, transferring ownership before resolving these questions undermines judicial authority and public accountability.
At the centre of the dispute is Safaricom, widely regarded as Kenya’s most profitable telecommunications firm and a cornerstone of the country’s digital economy.
The government had planned to raise over KSh 200 billion from the sale to support infrastructure development and ease fiscal pressure.
However, Kalonzo insists that the process has exposed deeper governance concerns.
“Before the High Court could determine these substantive issues, the asset at the centre of the dispute was transferred,” he noted, warning that such actions risk setting a dangerous precedent in the management of strategic national assets.
The remarks come amid growing public debate, with critics questioning the timing and transparency of the transaction, while supporters argue the sale is necessary to unlock much-needed funding for development projects.