Gachagua: Finance Bill vote will expose who stands with Kenyans
By Sharon Atieno, June 18, 2026Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has intensified pressure on Members of Parliament ahead of Thursday’s crucial vote on the controversial 2026 Finance Bill, warning that the decision lawmakers make will expose those standing with ordinary Kenyans and those backing policies that continue to burden struggling citizens.
Speaking through his X account on Thursday, June 18, 2026, Gachagua described the vote at the National Assembly as a defining moment for the country, saying Kenyans will closely watch how their elected leaders choose to act on a bill that directly affects their livelihoods.
“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. 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,” Gachagua said.
The former Deputy President revealed that legislators allied to Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) had already been directed to reject the bill and remain in the House to force a formal division vote, arguing that every MP must publicly declare where they stand on the matter.
Pressure on MPs
Gachagua further warned lawmakers against skipping the vote, insisting that members who choose to stay away should equally be judged by Kenyans for failing to defend public interests during such a critical national moment.
“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 stated.
His remarks come amid growing political tension surrounding the Finance Bill 2026, with debate intensifying over taxation proposals and the rising cost of living.
“There is no neutral position when the welfare of the people of Kenya is at stake. You are either for the people of Kenya or against them,” Gachagua added.