Jalang’o, Passaris Reject Finance Bill 2024

Lang'ata MP Phelix 'Jalang'o' Odiwour and Nairobi's Woman Representative Esther Passaria have voted against the Finance Bill of 2024.

These two lawmakers, who were previously associated with President William Ruto's Kenya Kwanza coalition, have now chosen to stand apart from the administration's proposed legislation. The contentious legislation introduces significant tax reforms aimed at enhancing compliance and expanding the tax base. The bill proposes amendments to various tax categories, including income tax, value-added tax (VAT), excise duty, and miscellaneous fees and levies.

The opposition lawmakers have taken a firm stance against the bill's provisions. Jalang'o expresses particular concern about the potential impact on ordinary citizens, citing issues related to M-PESA transactions, sanitary products, and automobile expenses. Notably, Passaris has articulated reservations about certain clauses within the bill. The discourse surrounding the Finance Bill has also spilt over into social media platforms. Passaris stance on the bill has drawn criticism from some Kenyans who have labelled her a 'traitor' for supporting the Finance Bill 2023.

In response to the proposed legislation, anti-Finance Bill protests have erupted, most notably the 'Occupy Parliament' demonstrations in Nairobi. Protestors are demanding the outright rejection of the bill, expressing their discontent with specific provisions and their potential impact on livelihoods. These demonstrations have disrupted businesses in major town centres and led to confrontations with law enforcement agencies. As lawmakers continue to deliberate, the fate of the Finance Bill 2024 hangs in the balance.

The Finance Bill 2024 outcome will significantly influence Kenya's economic landscape and determine how the financial burden is distributed between taxpayers and the government.