On June 18, Kenya's National
Assembly approved the Finance Bill 2026 by 122-40 in a vote with just 162
members present, more than half the house absent.
The bill introduces higher taxes on
rentals, imported clothes, and digital fees to widen the tax base for the
2026/27 fiscal year, though some controversial measures like phone excises were
removed.
The 40 no-voters, including MPs
like Babu Owino and Robert Mbui, earned praise as heroes, while absentees faced
backlash—especially vocal critic Ndindi Nyoro, who apologized for missing it
due to overseas commitments.
As the bill awaits President Ruto's signature amid planned protests, many question its legitimacy from such a slim turnout.