Safina Party unveils alternative budget
By Emmanuel Rono, June 17, 2026Safina Party has unveiled its alternative budget proposal for the 2026/27 financial year, positioning it as a people-centred economic blueprint aimed at easing the high cost of living, creating jobs, and restoring economic dignity for Kenyans.
In a statement by the deputy party leader, Willis Otieno, on June 17, 2026, the party criticised the government’s budget priorities, arguing that ordinary citizens continue to bear the burden of excessive taxation amid rising living costs and economic hardships.
Safina Party said its alternative budget seeks to protect livelihoods, stimulate production, and increase disposable income for households by reducing the tax burden on citizens and supporting sectors that drive economic growth.
“Unlike the current regime’s budget, which piles heavier burdens on struggling households through excessive taxation and misplaced priorities, our proposal focuses on protecting livelihoods, stimulating production, and putting more money back into the pockets of ordinary Kenyans,” the party said.
Inside the proposal
According to the party, its proposal prioritises measures aimed at lowering the cost of living while creating opportunities for businesses and workers to thrive in a challenging economic environment.
Under the proposal, the Ksh784.5 billion allocated to education would be used to fully finance learning from primary school to university, abolishing all school fees.
The party also proposes expanding the Ksh177.2 billion healthcare budget to provide free universal healthcare, eliminating hospital charges in all public health facilities.
Safina further wants the current 16 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) replaced with a five per cent sales tax.
The party also pledged to dismantle the Social Health Authority (SHA) system and refund mandatory contributions made by Kenyans.