Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has praised the 40 Members of Parliament who voted against the Finance Bill 2026, describing them as leaders who chose to stand with ordinary Kenyans instead of supporting what he termed an oppressive tax proposal.
In a strongly worded message shared on social media, Gachagua commended the lawmakers for rejecting the bill during the National Assembly vote on Thursday, June 18, 2026.
He said history would remember them as representatives who remained faithful to the people who elected them and defended the interests of millions of Kenyans.
He expressed confidence that their constituents would reward them for their decision when voters head to the ballot in the next General Election.
At the same time, the former Deputy President took issue with lawmakers who voted in favor of the bill or failed to participate in the vote.
He suggested that those who backed the legislation had chosen to side with the government instead of the citizens who entrusted them with leadership positions.
Gachagua further urged Kenyans to take note of the legislators who opposed the Finance Bill, arguing that their vote reflected the concerns of wananchi struggling with the rising cost of living and increased taxation.
He also attached religious significance to the number 40, noting that it is a symbolic figure in both the Bible and the Qur'an. The former Deputy President concluded his remarks by calling for national unity and ending his message with a prayer for the country.
His comments have added to the growing debate surrounding the Finance Bill 2026, which continues to attract mixed reactions from leaders and members of the public across the country.
Tags
Kenya