ODM MPs Risk Expulsion Over Finance Bill Support

The opposition party ODM has threatened expulsion for those who supported the controversial Finance Bill 2024.

The bill aims to raise an additional Sh302 billion in the next fiscal year through increased taxation. Despite this warning, several ODM members have broken ranks with their party's stance. MPs Mark Nyamita, Elisha Odhiambo, Phelix Odiwuor, and Esther Passaris voted against the bill during its second reading. They were joined by MP David Ochieng in opposing the legislation. However, not all ODM members followed suit, with MPs Memusi Kanchori and Gideon Ochanda voting in favour of the bill.

Those who opposed the bill cited concerns over its potential impact on ordinary citizens. Nyamita argued against increasing Value Added Tax on essential food items like bread and criticized the proposed tax on sugarcane transportation as an instance of double taxation. Odiwuor, while acknowledging his friendship with President William Ruto, explained that he had to reject the bill due to its potential to increase the cost of living for many Kenyans. ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has announced that the party would closely monitor the voting process and take action against members who have aligned themselves with the rival Kenya Kwanza coalition.

Sifuna referenced a recent court ruling that has made it easier to recall rebellious members, stating the party's intention to be the first to utilize this new legal recourse. Some MPs have sought legal protection to prevent their parties from recalling them, but the recent High Court decision may have shifted the balance of power. The Constitution grants voters the right to recall MPs before the end of their term, and Parliament is mandated to enact laws outlining the grounds and procedures for such recalls.

The controversy surrounding the Finance Bill extends beyond party politics. The Azimio coalition opposes several of the proposed taxes, arguing that they place an undue burden on already heavily taxed Kenyans. This sentiment has resonated with many citizens, leading to public demonstrations against the bill. The debate has also brought attention to the conduct of the National Assembly Speaker with senators accusing the Speaker of allowing the National Assembly to become an extension of the executive branch, citing instances where senators were denied access to the public gallery during proceedings.

This has led to calls for the Speaker's impeachment, with some senators describing his actions as those of a "coward" who is running the National Assembly like a "disco matanga DJ."