Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi has strongly criticized Treasury and National Planning Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi for pushing forward with the implementation of the Electronic Government Procurement (EGP) system, despite a High Court ruling suspending its rollout.
Speaking during the commissioning of two Junior Secondary School classrooms at St. Joseph's Primary School in Matisi Ward, Amisi said the system risks marginalizing small-scale traders and rural entrepreneurs who lack access to the necessary technological infrastructure.
“Insisting on EGP is discriminatory. Not every businessperson has access to basic tools like electricity and the internet. What we are seeing is an attempt to centralize government business and create a situation where powerful individuals control all government contracts in Kenya," he said.
The EGP system was introduced as part of the government's broader strategy to digitize procurement and increase transparency in public spending.
However, critics argue it excludes traders without consistent access to digital tools.
The High Court temporarily halted its implementation pending further hearings, a decision welcomed by many local business stakeholders.
Amisi’s remarks reflect growing concerns among MPs and community leaders that digital procurement could widen the gap between urban and rural enterprises, undermining local economic inclusion.
The Saboti MP also used the platform to voice broader frustrations with President William Ruto's administration, claiming that the government's performance has fallen short of public expectations.
“We are going to rewrite the history of this country,” Amisi said. “A president who fails to deliver will not have a second chance. That begins with Ruto unless he steps up his performance.”
Amisi also rallied support for the proposed Constitution Amendment Bill 2025, which seeks to entrench key development funds, including the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NG-AAF), and the Senate Oversight Fund, into the Constitution.
“Anyone who opposes this bill is simply against equitable development for all Kenyans.These funds are crucial for empowering our communities, and we must protect them,” he said.
The bill has sparked national debate, with proponents arguing that constitutional anchoring will secure long-term grassroots development, while critics warn it could undermine the devolved government system.
Amisi’s comments came as he commissioned NG-CDF-funded classrooms at Mulembe Primary School, underscoring his commitment to grassroots development.
“The people of Saboti deserve access to quality education, and I will continue to push for investments in schools, roads, and other critical infrastructure,” he said.