Gachagua Rallies MPs to Reject Finance Bill 2026, Says Vote Will Reveal Who Stands With Kenyans

Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader 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 defining moment that will determine whether elected leaders stand with ordinary Kenyans or support policies that increase their burden.

In a strongly worded statement, Gachagua said the outcome of the vote would clearly show where every legislator stands on issues affecting the welfare of citizens amid growing concerns over the cost of living and taxation.

“Today’s vote at the National Assembly for or against the Finance Bill 2026 is a defining moment for the people of the Republic of Kenya. At the end of the day, Kenyans will know whether their elected representative supports measures that oppress them more or cares for them,” Gachagua said.

The DCP leader revealed that all party-allied lawmakers had been instructed to vote against the bill and remain in the House to force a formal division, ensuring that every MP's position is publicly recorded.

According to Gachagua, transparency in the voting process is essential to allow citizens to hold their representatives accountable for decisions that directly affect their livelihoods.

“Our DCP Party 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 them and who is against them,” he stated.

Gachagua also criticized lawmakers who may choose to abstain from the vote or stay away from Parliament, arguing that neutrality is not an option when matters affecting the welfare of citizens are under consideration.

“Those members who keep away from the vote and sit on the fence must be deemed to be against the people of Kenya. They must make up their minds to be with the people or against them,” he said.

The former Deputy President maintained that the Finance Bill carries significant implications for households and businesses across the country, making the parliamentary vote one of the most closely watched political events of the year.

His remarks come amid heightened political debate over the proposed tax and revenue measures contained in the bill, with supporters arguing that the legislation is necessary to finance government programmes, while opponents contend that it could place additional pressure on already strained households and businesses.

As MPs prepare to cast their votes, attention remains firmly focused on Parliament, where the outcome is expected to shape the country's fiscal direction and fuel further political debate over taxation, public spending, and economic management.