Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has mounted a strong defence of the Finance Bill 2026, describing it as a well-balanced piece of legislation and dismissing claims that it contains punitive measures against Kenyans.
Speaking during a church service at Sombro Seventh Day Adventist Church in Kochia, Rangwe Constituency, Homa Bay County, Mbadi said the Bill had been subjected to extensive public participation and was not as controversial as some critics had portrayed it.
The Treasury CS accused a section of politicians opposed to the government of deliberately spreading misinformation about the Bill for political gain.
According to Mbadi, some of those criticising the legislation had either failed to read its contents or were opposing it based on political and tribal considerations rather than facts.
“Some people are spreading propaganda about the Finance Bill. Others are opposing it because of politics and tribal considerations without taking time to understand what is contained in the document,” he said.
Mbadi maintained that he would not support any legislation that imposes an unfair burden on citizens, insisting that the Bill was designed to support government operations while safeguarding the interests of ordinary Kenyans.
National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed also defended the Finance Bill, arguing that the majority of Kenyans supported its implementation following public participation exercises conducted across the country.
Junet further claimed that lawmakers who were absent during the vote effectively supported the passage of the Bill.
He also urged supporters of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) not to participate in planned demonstrations during the June 25 anniversary commemorations.
Gladys Wanga backed Mbadi’s position, saying the Treasury CS had actively engaged Kenyans through various forums to explain the contents of the Bill before it was debated in Parliament.
The Homa Bay governor commended Members of Parliament for educating wananchi on the proposed tax measures and similarly discouraged participation in planned protests.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo also attended the event and expressed confidence in President William Ruto’s political prospects, saying current developments indicate that he remains on course for victory in the next General Election.
The Finance Bill 2026 was passed by the National Assembly on Thursday and now awaits presidential assent before becoming law. The legislation introduces amendments to various tax laws aimed at boosting government revenue and supporting the implementation of the 2026/27 national budget.
