Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has escalated his attack on President William Ruto, alleging that there is a plan to siphon Ksh6.2 billion through confidential expenditure in the final days of the current financial year.

Speaking in X account on Thursday, June 18, 2026, Gachagua claimed the money is being pushed through cash-based allocations disguised as “confidential expenditure,” warning that only 12 financial days remain before the end of the cycle.

“William Ruto amepanga kuiba Ksh6.2 billion cash through confidential expenditure. Hiyo ni pesa cash,” Gachagua alleged.

He further claimed that part of the allocation includes Ksh200 million tagged under “operations and maintenance,” questioning its necessity and purpose.

“Supprano ameweka Ksh200 million for operations and maintenance. Hakuna kitu anamaintain. Hiyo ni pesa ya bure tu,” he added.

Political pressure over Finance Bill 2026

The remarks came as Gachagua also intensified pressure on MPs ahead of the Finance Bill 2026 vote, urging legislators allied to Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) to reject the bill and remain in the National Assembly to force a formal division.

He described the vote as a defining moment for Kenya, insisting that MPs must publicly declare whether they stand with citizens or support what he termed oppressive fiscal measures.

“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.

“At the end of the day, the people of Kenya will know whether their elected representative supports measures that oppress them more or cares for them.”

No neutral ground, says Gachagua

He also warned MPs against abstaining from the vote, saying those who avoid participation should be judged for failing to defend the interests of Kenyans.

“Those members who keep away from the vote and sit on the fence must be deemed to be against the people of Kenya. They must make up their mind to be with the people or against them,” he said.

The Finance Bill 2026 has triggered heated debate in Parliament, with opposition leaders arguing that it contains hidden taxes that could increase the cost of living, while government allies maintain it is a reform-driven law aimed at improving tax administration.

Opposition MPs including Kathiani legislator Robert Mbui and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro have raised concerns over proposed tax measures, while Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa has warned of potential job losses if the bill is passed in its current form.

Government leaders, however, have defended the proposals, insisting there are no harmful new taxes and that the reforms are necessary for revenue collection and fiscal stability.