Finance Bill 2026 Draws Mixed Reactions From Stakeholders - May 2026

Kenyan businesses broadly support a proposed tax amnesty program under the Finance Bill 2026, but are urging lawmakers to extend deadlines and reform laws surrounding tax refunds to avoid liquidity issues. Kenya's private sector is pushing back against the proposed digital tax in the Finance Bill 2026, warning it could harm financial flows and the tax base. Stakeholders and the National Assembly's Finance Committee are raising concerns about potential system inefficiencies at the Kenya Revenue Authority, opposing a proposal to shorten the annual tax filing deadline. Separately, Kenyan lawmakers are cautioning the National Treasury against its Sh4.82 trillion budget for the 2026/27 financial year, citing the risks posed by rising public debt and high oil prices amid global instability.