 |
| South Mugirango MP Silvanus Osoro |
South Mugirango MP Silvanus Osoro has hit out at Kenyans criticising the government’s plan to partner with Adani Holdings in the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement aimed at modernising Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). South Mugirango MP Silvanus Osoro said those opposed to the Adani deal should provide an alternative. Osoro expressed frustration with the public outcry, stating that a modern airport is necessary for the country. Why is Osoro supporting the Adani deal In a strongly worded statement, the MP highlighted the government’s dilemma of funding infrastructure development while minimising the tax burden on Kenyans. The lawmaker urged Kenyans to suggest alternative investors, adding that those against the deal shouldn’t be noisy without solutions. “You want & deserve a modern airport. You do not want to pay taxes. GOK does not want to add you a burden through further borrowing. PPP is legal. Get us another investor then to facelift the airport. We can’t be a noisy lot with no solutions,” Osoro wrote. The MP pointed out the long-term impact of upgrading the airport, arguing that modernising it would not only improve the country’s global standing but also create jobs.
“How many more youths will be employed in a facelifted international airport? How many more informal jobs will be created in the long run?? Eti, we live with our shame?! No. Eti just repair the leaking roof?! Hard decisions must be made as long as no public money is lost!” he added. What does Osoro want considered in Adani deal The Adani Holdings deal has raised concerns about job losses, the potential privatisation of public assets, and the involvement of a foreign entity in such a sensitive sector. Osoro stated that workers at the airport had a legitimate question about their job security, adding that it needed to be addressed. However, he was quick to dismiss these concerns, stating that the employees’ jobs would be given priority in the expanded facility. “The only discussion we should have is on the current employees’ plight. They will retain their positions, and more will be recruited to cover the expanded sections. Their demand for a clear clause on their plight should be addressed.
Hii ingine ni kelele. PPP is legal,” Osoro noted. The MP’s statement comes as some leaders and members of the public push for more clarity on the deal’s terms. Why does Esther Passaris support the Adani deal Elsewhere, Nairobi woman representative Esther Passaris downplayed Kenyans’ objections to leasing the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to the Adani Group. Speaking at JKIA on Wednesday, September 11, Passaris defended the deal, saying it will benefit the country more. Passaris shared her experience at an Indian airport, the Ahmedabad Airport, which the Adani Group reportedly built.
by Didacus Malowa