Mumias East Member of Parliament Peter Salasya has defended his decision to oppose the Finance Bill 2026, saying his position was informed by concerns over the impact of previous tax measures on ordinary Kenyans and businesses.
In a statement shared on his official X account on Saturday, June 20, 2026, the legislator said the latest finance bill should have provided an opportunity for the government to comprehensively review the Finance Act 2024 through fresh and meaningful public participation.
“Politics aside, I opposed the Finance Bill for one major reason,” Salasya stated.
According to the MP, many Kenyans still feel that some of the tax policies introduced under the 2024 legislation have contributed to a higher cost of living, weakened businesses, and slowed economic growth.
He argued that the government ought to have revisited the previous law section by section and allowed citizens to evaluate which measures had delivered positive results and which ones had failed.
“Kenya does not need taxation without consultation. Kenya needs policies that balance revenue collection, economic growth, and the welfare of ordinary citizens,” he said.
Despite his opposition, Salasya acknowledged that public participation had influenced some of the proposals contained in the Finance Bill 2026. He noted that pressure from citizens led to adjustments affecting the sugar industry, with some tax measures being changed to zero-rated status.
He further observed that the proposed increase in excise duty to 40 per cent is expected to curb sugar repackaging while safeguarding local sugar factories and supporting sugarcane farmers.
“This proves that public participation is not a formality—it is a necessity. Policies are stronger when citizens are heard,” Salasya added.
His remarks come just days after the National Assembly approved the Finance Bill 2026 following weeks of debate and public scrutiny. The bill passed during the third reading after 122 members of Parliament voted in support, while 40 legislators opposed it.
The legislation now awaits President William Ruto’s assent before becoming law.
