A section of lawmakers has expressed concerns over the government’s directive requiring all government entities to adopt the electronic procurement (e-procurement) system.
The legislators warned that the rollout could face legal challenges and may limit access to public tenders in areas with poor internet connectivity.
The e-Procurement system, officially known as the e-Government Procurement (e-GP) platform, is scheduled to be fully operational across all government ministries, departments, and agencies by July 1, 2025, according to the National Treasury.
The directive also mandates that suppliers register on the system to participate in government tenders.
Leaders, including Narok Senator Ledama Olekina, Kathiani MP Robert Mbui, and Nyeri Town MP Duncan Mathenge, have questioned the feasibility and legality of the rollout.
In an interview on Citizen TV, MP Mbui expressed concerns that the system may not meet constitutional standards of fairness, transparency, and accessibility.
He noted that areas with limited internet access could be disadvantaged in procurement processes.
Senator Olekina acknowledged the benefits of digitising procurement but argued that the national government may lack the authority to impose the system on counties.
He cautioned that insufficient consultation could lead to legal disputes and strain county resources.
MP Mathenge raised questions about the country’s readiness for a fully digital procurement system and its potential effectiveness in improving transparency, citing challenges in previous digitisation initiatives.
The National Treasury, however, maintains that the e-GP system is a key reform aimed at enhancing accountability, reducing human interference in procurement, and improving service delivery.
On August 31, President William Ruto said procurement should be open for all Kenyans to know how their money is being spent.
Ruto made it clear that officials unwilling to transition to the new digital system should consider stepping down.
“Any officials who are not ready to continue with e-procurement can as well leave,” he said.
“They will not stop us from fully adopting this system and ensuring our resources are used as expected.”
