Kenya’s proposed Privileges and Immunities (Amendment) Bill 2025 introduces strict new rules for international development agencies, charities, and NGOs seeking diplomatic privileges. The Bill requires these organisations to employ at least two-thirds Kenyan staff, limiting expatriates to one-third and only when no qualified Kenyan is available.The Bill reduces legal immunities, restricting them to actions performed strictly in official duties. Organisations would no longer be protected in contractual or commercial disputes, labour cases, traffic offences, or criminal matters. Tax exemptions would also be narrowed to goods and services used for official purposes, with other taxes remaining payable.The Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Cabinet Secretary would gain expanded authority to suspend or withdraw privileges in cases of abuse or non-compliance. Organisations must also submit annual performance and staffing reports or risk losing their host-country agreements.These reforms follow public backlash after several organisations—including Oxfam, IDEA, Shelter Afrique, NRC, PSI, and Save the Children—were granted broad privileges earlier in the year, and after the Gates Foundation withdrew from a similar agreement amid legal challenges. The government says the overhaul aims to improve transparency, accountability, and alignment with national interests. (ICE NAIROBI)

Fonte notizia: Business Daily