NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 18 – Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has intensified pressure on Members of Parliament ahead of the National Assembly vote on the Finance Bill 2026, describing the decision as a crucial test of leaders’ commitment to the welfare of ordinary Kenyans.
In a statement issued Thursday, Gachagua termed the parliamentary vote a defining moment that would reveal whether legislators stand with citizens or support measures likely to increase the economic burden on households.
“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,” he said.
The Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader announced that lawmakers allied to his party had been instructed to oppose the Finance Bill and remain in the House to force a formal division vote so that the public can know how each MP cast their ballot.
“Our DCP allied members have instructions to vote against the Finance Bill 2026 and stay in the House to force a Division. The people of Kenya must know who is for or against them,” Gachagua stated.
He also criticized legislators who may choose to abstain from the vote or fail to attend the sitting, arguing that neutrality was unacceptable on a matter directly affecting the livelihoods 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,” he said.
According to Gachagua, MPs must make a clear decision on whether to support citizens or back policies he claims could worsen the rising cost of living and economic hardships facing households.
“They must make up their mind to be with the people or against them. There is no neutral position when the welfare of the people of Kenya is at stake,” he added.
The Finance Bill 2026 has triggered intense political debate across the country, with critics warning that some proposals could increase the cost of living, while the government insists the measures are necessary to raise revenue and finance key development programmes.
The National Assembly is expected to conduct the final stages of debate and voting on the Bill following clause-by-clause consideration during the Committee of the Whole House.
