THE Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) is set to present its proposals on the Finance Bill before the National Assembly Budget and Appropriations Committee on Thursday, even as the accountants’ body warned that the recent nationwide matatu strike had dealt a heavy blow to Kenya’s economy.

Speaking during the 43rd ICPAK Annual Conference in Mombasa, ICPAK Chief Executive Officer Dr CPA Grace Kamau said the strike disrupted businesses, movement of people and critical economic activities across the country, with some delegates reportedly unable to attend the conference due to the transport paralysis.

Kamau said the institution’s proposals on the Finance Bill will focus on strengthening policies around taxation, accountability and financial management, while ensuring economic decisions protect both businesses and ordinary Kenyans during the current tough economic period.

“The impact of the matatu strike has been felt everywhere. We even have cases of some of our delegates failing to attend this forum. What we advocate for is for everybody to be able to play their role in the economy whether in the private or public sector,” said Dr CPA Grace Kamau.

She noted that restoring normal transport operations was important in helping the country regain economic momentum, adding that every sector plays a crucial role in supporting national growth and stability.

Kamau however acknowledged that some government measures may not always favor every Kenyan, but maintained that policy decisions must strike a balance between benefits and challenges while safeguarding the country’s economic future.

ICPAK has now urged the government and transport stakeholders to urgently develop long-term measures that will prevent future strikes, warning that repeated disruptions could weaken investor confidence and slow down economic growth.