Azimio Rallies its MPs to Shoot Down Finance Bill 2024, Threatens Return of Maandamano

Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Alliance has issued new threats to call for demonstrations if the government changes the contents of the National Dialogue Committee or imposes new taxes that burden Kenyans.

The coalition cautioned that it is closely monitoring the government's plans to implement a new taxation regime and alter the Nadco report.

While giving a press conference, the coalition leadership led by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka described the proposed taxes in the Finance Bill as punitive, warning that they risk impoverishing Kenyans.

The coalition instructed its members to reject the proposed Finance Bill, 2024

The coalition also issued a two-month ultimatum for the finalization of the eight Bills accompanying the Nadco report.

"As a coalition we are ready to go back to the streets if that is what it takes. I hope you are bold enough. Be ready ladies and gentlemen," Kalonzo announced. 

"If you feel a little weak that you can't withstand another round of demonstrations, then go eat something strong because we need you and this country needs you."

The Finance Bill, 2024, published on May 9, is set to undergo public participation. The public has until May 28 to provide feedback on the proposals.

The Bill includes tax measures that the Kenya Kwanza government aims to use to raise revenue and fund its ambitious projects.

Kalonzo made these remarks on Wednesday during the Azimio Parliamentary Group meeting at Nairobi’s Stanley Hotel.

The meeting was also attended by Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni, ODM Deputy Party Leaders Wycliffe Oparanya and Hassan Joho, along with several coalition MPs.

Opposition Chief Raila Odinga, Narc Kenya leader Martha Karua, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, and Roots Party leader George Wajackoyah were absent.

The purpose of the meeting was to brief the legislators on the content of the eight Bills accompanying the Nadco report.

The coalition expressed frustration with the slow pace at which the bicameral Parliament is considering these key Bills.

This call comes shortly after President William Ruto instructed Parliament to expedite the passage of the Nadco Bills.

"The Nadco report has been hanging somewhere in parliament. I do not know at which stage the report is but it seems to be moving slowly. Speed it up," Ruto said on 3rd May at the 20 years of NG-CDF celebrations. 

"The report seems stuck as you drink tea in parliament."

Kioni, accusing Kenya Kwanza of acting in bad faith regarding the enactment of the Bills, urged coalition lawmakers to remain steadfast and not be compromised, emphasizing the need to stand up for the people of Kenya.

"Kenya Kwanza is not committed to fulfilling all the promises, including enacting the Bills," he stated.

"Parliament is our last line of defence, if you go to bed with Kenya Kwanza then there is no other hope. Don't lie to us that you are going for projects."

Meanwhile, Wetangula has told off Azimio MPs opposing the proposed Finance Bill 2024. 

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula criticized Members of Parliament for politicizing the national budget-making process, reminding them of their crucial role in its formulation and passage. 

In response to public outcry over the Finance Bill 2024, Wetangula urged MPs to address any issues within the parliamentary system instead of airing their grievances publicly.

"You have had a one-month recess, and now it is time to focus on the national budget. You are the representatives who formulate and pass the budget in committees and the National Assembly," said Wetangula.

"Please save the public the agony of coming to cry in public that the budget is bad, yet you are the ones who pass it... Stay in parliament and do the right thing for the people of kenya. The public is counting on you because they voted for you."

He was speaking at the funeral service of Mzee Yonah Namuli in Sanandiki village, Bungoma.

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