Silverio Omari
Treasury Cabinet Secretary nominee John Mbadi explained on Saturday why he believes he is the best candidate for the position.
Appearing for vetting, Mbadi highlighted his extensive experience with financial matters as a key qualification. He emphasized his 15 years in Parliament, consistently serving on the budget and appropriations committee responsible for preparing the country’s budget.
“I was an assistant minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, where I supervised and coordinated government functions across all ministries, which aligns closely with the Treasury’s responsibilities,” he said. “During this time, I engaged extensively with the Kenyan budget and macro-economic policies, and I am well-versed in generating budget policy statements.”
Mbadi is one of five nominees scheduled for vetting today, alongside Salim Mvurya (Trade), Rebecca Miano (Tourism), Opiyo Wandayi (Energy), and Kipchumba Murkomen (Sports).
Currently, Mbadi serves as the chair of the Public Accounts Committee, holding ministries, departments, and agencies accountable. He has 28 years of experience in finance, leadership, and politics, first joining Parliament in 2007 to represent Gwassi Constituency. In the 12th Parliament, he represented Suba South Constituency and served as the Leader of the Minority Party.
In September 2012, he was appointed Assistant Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, a position he held until the 2013 general elections.
Mbadi’s educational background includes attending Lingongo Primary School and Kokuro Boys Secondary School. He earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Nairobi in 1996 and a Master of Business Administration in 2007.
Professionally, he was the Finance Director at Medair East Africa – South Sudan Programme (2004-2008), a senior accountant at the University of Nairobi (1999-2003), an accountant at the University of Nairobi Enterprise Services (2000-2002), and an assistant accountant at the University of Nairobi (1996-1999).
