DCP Party leader Rigathi Gachagua has directed Members of Parliament allied to the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) to vote against the Finance Bill 2026 during its crucial Third Reading in the National Assembly.
In a statement posted on his social media accounts ahead of the vote, Gachagua described the parliamentary debate as a defining moment that would test where lawmakers stand on issues affecting ordinary Kenyans.
“Today is a defining moment for the people of the Republic of Kenya. It is a moment that will show whether Members of Parliament stand with the people or support measures that continue to oppress them,” Gachagua said.
The former deputy president instructed MPs aligned to his party not only to reject the Bill but also to remain in the House and push for a division vote, a process that records how each legislator votes on the proposed law.
According to Gachagua, such a move would ensure accountability by making every MP’s position publicly known.
“There is no neutral position when the welfare of the people of Kenya is at stake. You are either for the people of Kenya or against them,” he stated.
He further warned that lawmakers who fail to participate in the vote or choose to remain silent would effectively be siding against the interests of Kenyans.
The Finance Bill 2026 is expected to play a key role in helping the government raise revenue needed to fund the national budget. The legislation successfully passed its Second Reading in Parliament despite opposition from a section of lawmakers who argue that some of its provisions could increase the financial burden on households and businesses.
Opposition leaders, including Gachagua, have maintained that the Bill contains measures that could worsen the cost of living and shield what they describe as excessive government spending.
Among the proposals that have generated debate are taxes and levies on digital transactions, mobile money and fintech services, changes affecting the taxation of second-hand clothing imports, a proposed 25 per cent excise duty on imported mobile phones, expanded powers for the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), and taxation of virtual assets and digital platforms.
The government has defended the Bill, insisting that the proposals are largely administrative and aimed at sealing tax loopholes while helping the Treasury achieve its revenue target of KSh3.5 trillion without introducing broad-based new taxes.
The outcome of the vote is expected to determine whether the Finance Bill proceeds to the next stage of the legislative process amid continued political and public scrutiny.
