MPs clash as Finance Bill 2026 pass Second Reading

Opposition MPs accused the government of using its numerical strength in Parliament to push through controversial tax proposals without giving legislators sufficient time to examine the 124-page Bill..

✨ Key Highlights

The Finance Bill 2026 passed its Second Reading in the National Assembly on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, amidst heated arguments between government and opposition lawmakers over tax proposals.

The Bill, a key part of the Sh4.82 trillion 2026/27 budget, aims to raise funds through domestic and external borrowing to cover a projected fiscal deficit of Sh1.14 trillion.
Opposition MPs, including Deputy Minority Leader Robert Mbui, accused the Kenya Kwanza administration of rushing the legislative process and suppressing debate, citing concerns over alleged hidden taxes and inadequate public participation.
Key areas expected to face further debate include tax measures affecting the mitumba (second-hand clothes) sector, manufacturers, mobile phone users, and the electric vehicle industry, with National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah defending the Bill against claims of punitive taxation.

Continue Reading

Read the complete article from The Standard

📰 Read Full Article

Related News

4h ago

Tax Bill rebellion: Why MPs have rejected Ruto's proposals

Members of the National Assembly's Committee on Finance and National Planning have significantly diverged from President William Ruto's administration's tax proposals, recommending the removal or revision of key measures in the Finance Bill 2026.

The Standard Business

📰 Read Full Story

10h ago

Ruto's fiscal plan faces fresh acid test as MPs poke holes in tax proposals

Members of the National Assembly's Committee on Finance and National Planning have raised significant objections to President William Ruto's proposed tax measures within the Finance Bill 2026.

The Standard Business

📰 Read Full Story

politics10h ago

Finance Bill fireworks: Opposition, government MPs clash over taxes

Intense drama unfolded in Kenya's Parliament as Members of Parliament clashed over the Finance Bill 2026, with accusations of hidden tax increases and a rushed progression through the House.

Standard Politics

📰 Read Full Story