President William Ruto has commended the National Assembly for passing the Finance Bill 2026, describing the vote as a firm stand for Kenya’s interests amid propaganda and divisive politics.

Speaking during the funeral of the late Zipporah Kosgey, wife of former Tinderet MP Henry Kosgey, in Kipkoror village, Nandi Hills Constituency on June 19, 2026, Ruto said the process reflected leadership guided by national interest and urged Kenyans to scrutinise leaders spreading falsehoods and tribal rhetoric.

“Nashukuru bunge jana walipitisha Finance Bill na kutoruhusu watu wa porojo, fitina na propaganda. Kwa mara ya kwanza waliulizwa kipengele gani inaumiza Wakenya lakini wakashindwa kwa sababu ni watapeli. Ninawasihi kila kiongozi wafanye haki,” he said.

He further said public debate should be anchored on truth and accountability, adding that leaders who stood firm would be remembered for prioritising the country.

“History will record that when a time was required to stand for country, you were there. You stood firm for the interests of Kenya and refused to be swayed by propaganda, falsehoods and divisive politics,” he added.

Finance Bill 2026 passed

The National Assembly passed the Finance Bill 2026 on June 18, 2026, with 122 votes in favour and 40 against, and no abstentions.

Speaker Moses Wetangula announced that the votes comprised 103 electronic and 19 manual in support, while opposition stood at 36 electronic and 4 manual. Only about 162 MPs were present out of 349 during the sitting.

Government leaders defended the Bill, with Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah stating it did not introduce harmful taxation, while Finance Committee Chair Kuria Kimani dismissed claims of new taxes on mitumba traders and mobile users.

Parliament reported receiving more than 100,000 public submissions during consultations held across 13 counties.

Political reactions

The passage of the Bill sparked criticism from opposition leaders, who argued it would increase pressure on households amid high living costs.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua described the vote as a defining moment, urging MPs to consider the impact of their decisions on citizens. Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka said legislators were elected to represent wananchi and warned that voters would judge them in the 2027 elections.

Siaya Governor James Orengo praised MPs who voted against the Bill, aligning with the Linda Mwananchi movement and urging continued accountability in fiscal decisions. Governance commentator Ndegwa Njiru also questioned the absence of some MPs during the vote, including Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, despite his earlier criticism of the Bill.

The Finance Bill 2026 debate continues to highlight divisions between government and opposition over taxation policy, public welfare, and fiscal priorities.