SIAYA COUNTY ASSEMBLY MOVES TO OPERATIONALIZE ACCESS TO INFORMATION ACT,2025
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Friday, 24th April, 2026
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The County Assembly, through its Committee on Governance and Administration, in collaboration with Transparency International Kenya (TI Kenya), the European Union, the Tupigane na Ufisadi (TUNU) Project, and the Commission on Administrative Justice (CAJ), has concluded a two-day stakeholder workshop on Access to Information sensitization and implementation. The workshop aimed at strengthening the capacity of local civil society actors in the fight against corruption.
In her presentation, Ms. Lilian Mbilo from the Commission on Administrative Justice outlined the key provisions, applications, and objectives of the Access to Information Act, 2025. She further highlighted the limitations of the Act and emphasized the urgent need for accompanying regulations to provide a clear roadmap for implementation, minimize legal risks and disputes, and establish compliance mechanisms for implementing departments.
The County Director of Public Participation, Mr. Jared Abayo, proposed the formation of a multi-sectoral technical working group to spearhead the development of the necessary regulations to support effective implementation of the Act.
House Speaker, Hon. George Okode, reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to the operationalization of the legislation. He commended the Commission on Administrative Justice and Transparency International Kenya for their support in facilitating public participation, guiding the legislative process, and ensuring compliance. He also acknowledged the critical role played by the media in bridging the gap between the County Government and the public.
The media fraternity, in turn, pledged to enhance public awareness of the Act by undertaking civic education through storytelling.
The Access to Information Act, 2025 seeks to give effect to citizens’ right to information, establish a framework for proactive disclosure, promote routine and systematic access to information, protect individuals who disclose information in the public interest, and facilitate public education on the right to access information.
