National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has disclosed that many Kenyans have expressed their sympathy, acknowledging the significant challenges that come with his new role.
Speaking during an interview on Thursday, August 22, Mbadi urged the public to stop sympathizing with him and instead allow him the time to effectively carry out his duties.
The CS emphasised that the president's decision to appoint him from the opposition was a clear sign of his ability to excel in the role and effectively execute his duties.
"People tell me that this is a very tough job. They are sympathising with me. Please don't sympathise with me. If a job is too easy, give it to anyone. If a job is tough, look for someone who has the capacity and the ability to do it.
"The fact that the president sourced for me from the other side of the political formation gives me the pleasure to think that I have the capacity and ability to do it. Give me time and I will do my best. I owe it to Kenyans," Mbadi remarked.
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The CS further affirmed that the government was not bringing back the Finance Bill 2024 but was considering some of the proposals which he said were progressive.
“No one is reintroducing the Finance Bill 2024. There were provisions in the bill that were progressive. For instance, why would one reject an amendment to increase excise duty on imported sugar from Ksh5 to Ksh7.5 per kg to protect our sugar industry? Just because it was in the Finance Bill 2024?" Mbadi posed.
Similarly, he noted that the National Treasury was not going to ambush Kenyans and any proposal will have proper public participation.
"There is no legislation which will come from Treasury to the National Assembly without explanation given to the public. We must have proper public participation. We have not taken anything to the National Assembly as of now," Mbadi explained.
