As Members of Parliament prepare to debate and vote on the contentious Finance Bill 2024 this Tuesday, the nation is abuzz with activity both online and offline.
Speaking today at St. Monica Catholic Church in Njiru Ward, Kasarani Constituency Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi firmly stated his opposition to the Finance Bill 2024.
Wanyonyi assured the congregation of his commitment to stand against any tax measures that would cause further hardship to Kenyans.
“Any tax that will bring suffering to Kenyans, I will not vote for it,” he declared.
He acknowledged the importance of paying taxes but criticised some of the proposed measures as excessively punitive.
The Finance Bill 2024, unveiled by Treasury CS Njuguna Ndung’u while presenting the Sh3.92 trillion 2024-25 Budget estimates in Parliament, aims to raise Sh2.92 trillion locally through various tax measures.
Although the government made minor adjustments, such as removing the 16% VAT on bread, Kenyans remain unsatisfied. They are calling for the complete removal of all proposed taxes.
Wanyonyi expressed deep concern over the potential impact of the bill on ordinary citizens.
“The current finance bill in parliament, if it passes, will make the life of Kenyans very difficult,” he warned.
His remarks resonate with the sentiments of many Kenyans who have taken to social media to petition their MPs to reject the bill.
At the church event, Wanyonyi was accompanied by education champion Muthoni Ouko, MCA Emma Isalambo, and former MCA Carolyn Mayunzu.
“We will vote No,” Wanyonyi stated unequivocally, aligning himself with the public’s demand for a more considerate approach to taxation.
With the national conversation intensifying, all eyes are now on Parliament which will debate the bill next Tuesday which will will be crucial in determining the financial future of Kenya and the extent to which public opinion can influence legislative decisions.
