Former Deputy President and DCP Party leader Rigathi Gachagua has commended the 40 Members of Parliament who voted against the Finance Bill 2026, describing them as leaders who stood with Kenyans despite the legislation ultimately passing in the National Assembly.
In a statement, Gachagua singled out the lawmakers who opposed the Bill during its third reading, saying they had chosen to defend the interests of millions of Kenyans rather than support what he termed an oppressive tax regime.
According to the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader, the legislators demonstrated courage by voting against the government’s flagship revenue-raising legislation, insisting that history would remember them for taking a stand during what he described as a defining moment for the country.
Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua. Photo: Courtesy.
Gachagua further expressed confidence that voters would reward the MPs in the 2027 General Election, arguing that constituents would recognize their decision to oppose the Bill when they return to seek re-election.
At the same time, the former DP faulted lawmakers who voted in favour of the Finance Bill as well as those who failed to participate in the vote.
He accused them of abandoning the interests of the people who elected them, claiming they had chosen to back government policies that would increase the financial burden on ordinary Kenyans.
He also urged Kenyans to keep track of how their elected representatives voted, maintaining that the division in the House provided a clear record of which MPs supported and opposed the legislation.
The remarks came a day after the National Assembly passed the Finance Bill 2026 during its third reading following an electronic vote.
A total of 122 MPs voted in favour of the Bill, while 40 opposed it. None of the lawmakers abstained.
The legislation was approved after MPs adopted amendments proposed by the Finance and National Planning Committee, clearing the final parliamentary hurdle before it is transmitted to President William Ruto for assent.
Once signed by the President, the Finance Bill 2026 will become law, providing the legal framework for implementing the government’s tax and revenue measures contained in the 2026/27 national budget.
