Salasya Explains Why He Rejected Finance Bill 2026

Mumias East Member of Parliament Peter Salsya

Mumias East MP Peter Salasya has explained his decision to vote against the Finance Bill 2026. He said the legislation failed to address concerns raised after the Finance Act 2024.

The lawmaker said Parliament had a chance to review previous tax measures. He argued that the government should have opened a fresh public participation process.

Salasya said his opposition was not based on political differences. He said his position focused on reviewing policies affecting Kenyans and businesses.

Salasya Questions Existing Tax Measures

In a statement shared on Saturday, June 20, the MP said many Kenyans still feel the impact of the 2024 tax changes.

He argued that some measures have increased business costs and affected household spending. According to him, the Finance Bill 2026 offered an opportunity to correct those concerns.

Salasya said lawmakers should have examined the previous law clause by clause. He added that Parliament should have identified measures that needed changes.

The MP said citizens deserved an opportunity to assess the impact of the earlier tax policies. He maintained that public views should guide future financial decisions.

Public Participation Influenced Changes

Despite opposing the Bill, Salasya acknowledged that public pressure changed some proposals. He cited adjustments made in the sugar sector as an example.

The MP said concerns from farmers and industry players led to changes in proposed tax measures. He argued that the process showed the importance of public involvement.

Salasya said some sugar-related tax proposals were adjusted after consultations. He added that the changes would support local millers and protect farmers.

He maintained that public participation should not become a routine requirement. Instead, he said it should shape major government policies.

Debate Over Finance Bill Continues

The National Assembly approved the Finance Bill 2026 after weeks of public discussion. A total of 122 MPs supported the legislation, while 40 voted against it.

The Bill will support the government's Ksh4.8 trillion budget for the 2026/27 financial year. It includes measures aimed at increasing government revenue.

Supporters of the legislation argue that it will strengthen domestic revenue collection. They also say it will reduce dependence on borrowing.

Critics, including Salasya, believe some tax measures could increase pressure on citizens. They argue that the government should focus on reducing the cost of living.

Politics aside, I opposed the Finance Bill for one major reason.

It was the perfect opportunity for President William Samoei Ruto's government to revisit the entire 2024/2025 Finance Act clause by clause and allow genuine public participation. Kenyans deserved a chance to review… pic.twitter.com/Yo9MmnbPBF

— Hon. Peter Salasya (@pksalasya) June 20, 2026

Finance Debate Remains Active

The Finance Act 2024 remains a major point of discussion among lawmakers and the public. Critics have continued to question some of its provisions.

Salasya said reviewing previous tax decisions would have improved public confidence. He argued that citizens must have a stronger role in financial policy decisions.

The MP maintained that his vote against the Finance Bill reflected his concerns. He said he will continue pushing for policies that support Kenyans.