Treasury Cabinet Secretary nominee John Mbadi articulated his qualifications for the role on Saturday during his vetting process.
Mbadi, who has served in Parliament for 15 years, emphasized his extensive experience with financial matters as a core asset. He has been a consistent member of the Budget and Appropriations Committee, tasked with crafting the country’s budget.
“In my previous role as an Assistant Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, I was responsible for supervising and coordinating functions across all government ministries, a role closely aligned with treasury responsibilities,” Mbadi noted.
He further highlighted his in-depth experience with Kenya’s budget and macroeconomic policies. “I have engaged extensively with the budget review outlook papers prepared annually and am well-versed in formulating budget policy statements.”
Mbadi, who currently chairs the influential Public Accounts Committee, is one of five nominees undergoing vetting today. The other nominees include Salim Mvurya (Trade), Rebecca Miano (Tourism), Opiyo Wandayi (Energy), and Kipchumba Murkomen (Sports).
With 28 years of experience in finance, leadership, and politics, Mbadi’s career began in 2007 when he was elected to represent Gwassi Constituency in the National Assembly. He later served as the MP for Suba South and as the Leader of the Minority Party in the 12th Parliament.
In September 2012, Mbadi was appointed Assistant Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, a role he held until the 2013 elections.
His academic background includes a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Nairobi (2004) and a Master of Business Administration (2007). Mbadi also held key financial positions, including Finance Director at Medair East Africa-South Sudan Programme (2004-2008) and senior accountant at the University of Nairobi (1999-2003).