Opposition leader Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka addressing the Media alongside other leaders on July 3, 2026. Photo Courtesy. 
By Andrew Mbuva.
Opposition leader Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka has sharply criticized the Government over the sale of its 15 percent stake in Safaricom PLC to Vodacom Group, accusing the State of rushing through the transaction before the High Court of Kenya delivers its judgment on a pending constitutional petition challenging the deal.
In a press statement issued on Friday, Kalonzo expressed concern that the National Treasury finalized the transaction shortly after the Court of Appeal of Kenya lifted conservatory orders that had temporarily halted the sale.
He noted that although the appeal court removed the injunctions, it did not determine the legality or constitutionality of the transaction, adding that the High Court is expected to issue its ruling within the coming weeks.
Kalonzo argued that proceeding with the sale before the court's final determination undermines public confidence in constitutional litigation and raises concerns about respect for due process. He questioned whether ordinary citizens can expect meaningful legal protection if disputed public assets can be transferred before courts conclude hearing such cases.
Describing Safaricom as a strategic national asset, Kalonzo said the telecommunications giant plays a central role in Kenya's digital economy through its mobile network, financial services, and technological infrastructure. He questioned why the Government was in a hurry to dispose of what he termed a profitable public investment before the courts had spoken on the matter.
According to Kalonzo, the Government sold approximately six billion shares at KSh34 per share, reducing its ownership in Safaricom from 35 percent to 20 percent while increasing Vodacom's stake to about 55 percent. He alleged that the transaction was undervalued, opaque and constitutionally questionable, claiming expert evidence presented before the court valued the shares significantly higher.
The former Vice President also questioned the timing of the sale, arguing that the Government had forgone substantial future dividend earnings by disposing of part of its stake shortly before an expected dividend payout. He maintained that the decision sacrificed long-term public revenue in exchange for immediate cash proceeds.
Kalonzo said the transaction raises serious questions about transparency, accountability, valuation and national sovereignty. While affirming his respect for the judiciary, he said his legal team would await the High Court's judgment and reserve all available constitutional and legal avenues to challenge the transaction if necessary.
He concluded by accusing President William Ruto's administration of acting against the interests of Kenyans and called on citizens to register as voters ahead of the 2027 General Election, urging them to hold the Government accountable through the ballot.
