Kalonzo warns MPs against backing Finance Bill 2026, says Kenyans will judge their votes
By Emmanuel Rono, June 18, 2026Wiper Patriotic Front Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has urged Members of Parliament to reject the Finance Bill 2026, warning that supporting the proposed measures would betray the trust of ordinary Kenyans who cast their votes during the previous general elections.
Taking to his X account on Thursday, June 18, 2026, Kalonzo told the legislators that they were elected to represent the interests of wananchi rather than act as a rubber stamp for government proposals.
“A mother woke up before dawn, walked to a polling station and queued for hours because she believed you would go to Nairobi and fight for her,” Kalonzo said.
Proposed allocation
He argued that approving a Ksh28.4 billion shortfall in free day secondary education capitation would hurt children from poor families by undermining access to education.
Kalonzo criticised the funding gap in the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), claiming it could leave more Kenyans unable to access medical services when they need them most.
Kalonzo further opposed proposals to impose a 16 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on M-Pesa platform fees, saying the move would burden millions of Kenyans who rely on mobile money services for daily transactions.
He also took issue with the government’s projected fiscal deficit of Ksh1.11 trillion, describing it as unsustainable and warning that it would increase the country’s debt burden.
“When you approve a fiscal deficit of Ksh1.11 trillion, you are not building this country; you are mortgaging it,” he told lawmakers.
“Make no mistake: history will record your vote, and in 425 days, just like the current regime, the people will have made a record of the choice you made and make it plain at the ballot paper box on August 10th next year.”
Gachagua’s advice to MPs
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has also urged MPs allied to his Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) to reject the bill and remain in the National Assembly during voting to force a formal division vote.
“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.”