Big split after MPs pass tax law as plans to mark Gen Z’s big day builds up

The passage of the Finance Bill 2026 has triggered mixed reactions across the political spectrum even as preparations gather pace for the June 25 commemoration of Gen Z-led anti-government protests.

On Thursday, a total of 122 members of the National Assembly voted in favour of the Bill. Only 40 members voted against it.

The vote is among efforts by the government to fund the Sh4.8 trillion budgets for the 2026-27 fiscal year.

The vote saw the government's numerical strength prevail despite a consolidated opposition bloc.

The Bill, which contains a raft of tax and revenue-raising measures aimed at boosting government collections, now awaits assent by President William Ruto before becoming law.

Supporters of the legislation have defended it as necessary to sustain government programmes and reduce reliance on borrowing.

However, critics argue that some of the proposed measures will place additional pressure on households and businesses already grappling with a high cost of living.

The disagreement comes as a group of leaders led by Siaya Governor James Orengo have intensified calls for Kenyans to observe June 25, calling on Kenyans not to report to work.

Accompanied by former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga, People’s Liberation Party boss Martha Karua, human rights lawyer Gitobu Imanyara and former Makueni Governor Prof. Kivutha Kibwana, the leaders on Thursday petitioned and notified Inspector General of Police of their intention for a peaceful nationwide march.

“Mark your calendars: June 25th will be observed as a public holiday. No work, no school!” Orengo said.

“We invite all Kenyan mothers, fathers, siblings and friends to march to Parliament to demand justice and lay flowers where our children’s lives were cruelly taken,” Orengo said.

Several MPs allied to the administration welcomed the passage of the Bill, insisting that Parliament had struck a balance between raising revenue and protecting citizens from excessive taxation.

However, opposition leaders faulted the legislation, warning that it risks alienating citizens who continue to bear burden of high cost of living.

DCP party leader Rigathi Gachagua while lauding the 40 who rejected the Bill asked Kenyans to deal with those who voted in favour of the Finance Bill.

“History will remember the 40 Honourable members of the National Assembly who on Thursday stood with the people of Kenya. You are the true heroes of our nation who chose the 55 million Kenyans against the oppressive 2026/27 Finance Bill,” Gachagua said.

He asked Kenyans to stand with the MPs who voted against the bill.

“Dear Kenyans, please note the Honourable members who stood with you and voted NO, to reject the 2026 Finance Bill. That was a vote for you as a Kenyan.”

Starehe MP Amos Mwago termed the passage as the start of more agitation for tax accountability to ensure Kenyans get value.

“The call for fair taxation, accountability, and economic justice remains alive. Together, we must continue advocating for policies that support growth, protect livelihoods, and ease the cost of living for all Kenyans,” Mwago said.

Saboti MP Caleb Amisi while commending the 40 lawmakers who voted against the Bill insisted they will still continue fighting for the common man.

“The 40 MPs who were present, braved to this late to stand with Kenyans and voted NO, Caleb Amisi included; history will remember you,” he said.

Mumias East MP Peter Salaysia said the huge number of MPs who were a no-show during the vote is a testament to the hostility on the ground especially against the tax measures.

“Notably, the majority of the absentees came from Mt Kenya region, particularly MPs from the UDA party.  Their conspicuous absence speaks volumes,” Salasyia said.

The debate over the Bill has spilled beyond Parliament, reigniting political tensions that have persisted since the historic June 2024 demonstrations that saw thousands of young Kenyans take to the streets to protest proposed tax increases and demand greater government accountability.

Lawyer and governance commentator Willis Otieno has faulted MPs who failed to participate in the vote.

“Many of these same legislators will later emerge in public forums, delivering eloquent lectures on economics and professing unwavering solidarity with ordinary Kenyans.”

With President Ruto expected to sign the Bill, attention is now shifting to State House even as activists, youth groups and political leaders continue mobilising around the June 25 anniversary.