Gachagua Warns DCP MPs, Allies Against Supporting Finance Bill 2026

Gachagua Warns DCP MPs, Allies Against Supporting Finance Bill 2026

NAIROBI, Kenya — Former Deputy President and Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has intensified opposition to the Finance Bill 2026, directing lawmakers allied to his party to vote against the legislation and demanding that every Member of Parliament publicly declare their position through a recorded vote.

The directive comes ahead of the crucial Third Reading stage of the Finance Bill in the National Assembly, a vote that could determine the fate of key tax and revenue measures proposed by the government for the 2026/27 financial year.

In a strongly worded statement issued before the parliamentary vote, Gachagua described the bill as a defining test of leadership and accountability, arguing that legislators must openly demonstrate whether they stand with ordinary Kenyans or support measures that could increase the cost of living.

“Today’s vote at the National Assembly for or against the 2026 Finance Bill is a defining moment for the people of the Republic of Kenya,” Gachagua stated.

“Our DCP-allied members have instructions to vote against the Finance Bill 2026 and stay in the House to force a Division. The People of Kenya must know who is for or against them,” he added.

Push for a Recorded Vote

The former Deputy President urged opposition-aligned MPs to remain in the chamber and demand a Division, a parliamentary procedure that requires lawmakers to cast votes individually and have their positions officially recorded.

According to Gachagua, a recorded vote would allow Kenyans to scrutinize how their elected representatives vote on matters affecting taxation, public spending, and economic policy.

He further warned that legislators who choose to absent themselves during the vote risk being viewed as indifferent to the concerns of citizens grappling with economic hardships.

The remarks come as public debate over the Finance Bill continues to dominate political discussions across the country.

Concerns Over Tax Measures

Gachagua’s criticism centers on provisions that he argues could place additional pressure on households, small businesses, and consumers already struggling with high living costs.

Particularly, he expressed concern over proposals affecting digital transactions and financial payments, warning that increased taxation in these sectors could discourage entrepreneurship and raise the cost of everyday services.

The DCP leader also questioned the government’s strategy of relying heavily on taxation to bridge revenue gaps.

According to him, Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) collections have consistently fallen below projected targets over the last three years, raising questions about the effectiveness of introducing additional tax measures.

He argued that improving efficiency in revenue collection and reducing government expenditure should take precedence over imposing new financial burdens on citizens.

Call for Spending Cuts

Beyond opposing the bill, Gachagua proposed alternative measures aimed at reducing pressure on taxpayers.

He urged the government to cut expenditure on non-essential activities, including official travel, consultancies, and administrative costs.

According to the opposition leader, reducing wasteful spending by at least 30 percent could generate significant savings without requiring additional taxes.

Gachagua also highlighted concerns regarding healthcare funding, noting that allocations to the sector remain below international commitments previously adopted by Kenya.

He argued that increased investment in health services should be prioritized to improve access and strengthen public healthcare systems.

Government Defends Finance Bill

The government’s position, however, differs sharply from that of the opposition.

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has maintained that the Finance Bill 2026 does not introduce any new taxes and is primarily intended to streamline revenue administration and support economic growth.

Government officials have repeatedly defended the legislation, arguing that it seeks to strengthen public finances while maintaining a stable environment for investment and business.

Legal Challenge Adds New Twist

The Finance Bill is also facing legal scrutiny.

The Consumers Federation of Kenya (COFEK) has moved to court seeking conservatory orders to suspend several provisions of the bill pending the hearing and determination of a constitutional petition.

The federation argues that some proposals could affect consumer rights, privacy protections, and fair administrative practices.

With the Finance Bill having already cleared the Second Reading stage in Parliament, attention is now firmly focused on the final vote, where lawmakers will decide whether the contentious legislation proceeds to the next stage.

As the debate intensifies, the outcome is expected to have significant implications for Kenya’s economic policy, taxation framework, and political landscape in the months ahead.

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Gachagua Warns DCP MPs, Allies Against Supporting Finance Bill 2026