Business Owners Issue Demands on Tobacco Amendment Bill, Reject Nairobi-Only Public Hearing
Share
Business owners and traders have accused lawmakers of failing to ensure meaningful public participation in the legislative process surrounding the Tobacco Control Amendment Bill.
In a press statement dated June 22, 2026, the group comprising traders, retailers, distributors, hospitality operators, and entrepreneurs said consultations held in several counties revealed widespread dissatisfaction with how the Bill has been developed.
“We, the business owners, traders, retailers, distributors, hospitality operators, and entrepreneurs from the Mountain region, wish to express our deep concern regarding the manner in which the Senate Bill No. 35 of 2024 – The Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill is being handled and the exclusion of key stakeholders from the public participation process,” read part of the press statement.
They argued that key stakeholders directly affected by the proposed law have not been adequately involved, despite the far-reaching economic implications of the amendments.
Traders Raise Concerns Over Public Participation on Tobacco Amendment Bill Process
The traders said both the Senate and the National Assembly processes have fallen short of constitutional requirements on public participation, claiming that millions of Kenyans in the sector were effectively locked out of consultations.
They also criticized the National Assembly Health Committee’s decision to hold public hearings only in Nairobi, arguing that the move disadvantages stakeholders from other counties who may not be able to afford to travel to the capital.
According to the group, the Tobacco Amendment Bill is a national matter and should therefore be subjected to inclusive engagement across all regions.
Also Read: Parliament Bows to Pressure, Postpones Public Participation on Tobacco Amendment Bill
The stakeholders further raised concerns over the scheduling of the public hearing on June 25, saying the date holds significant meaning for many Kenyans, particularly young people, in relation to civic engagement and remembrance of the 2024 Gen Z-led protests.
“We are equally concerned that the hearing has been scheduled for 25th June, a date that carries significant meaning for many Kenyans, especially our youth, the children of this nation. This is a day that has become associated with civic engagement, constitutional rights awareness, and the voices of our youth demanding justice and to be heard,” business owners stated.
They argued that the timing could limit participation and undermine the spirit of inclusive dialogue.
Demands Issued to Parliament
The group further issued five demands to parliament and relevant institutions, calling for:
- Extension of the public participation period on the Bill
- Nationwide public hearings beyond Nairobi
Also Read: Shock as Parliament Schedules Controversial Tobacco Bill Hearing on Gen Z Memorial Day
- Virtual and county-based participation mechanisms
- Inclusion of traders and other affected sectors in consultations
- Full assessment of the economic impact of the proposed amendments
Additionally, traders warned that businesses across the country are already under pressure from high taxation, rising operating costs, and declining consumer purchasing power, adding that new legislation affecting the sector must take into account its impact on jobs, livelihoods, and government revenue.
Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates
Demands on the Tobacco Control Amendment Bill .Photo/ file