Raila sets date for 'big announcement' on Finance Bill

By Peter Ochieng

Azimio La Umoja One Kenya leader, Raila Odinga has set the stage for a 'big announcement' on the seemingly controversial Finance Bill, 2023.

Odinga who has been opposed to the bill from the onset, says he will on Thursday issue a comprehensive statement on why they, as Azimio are opposed to it.

“On the Finance Bill issue, we as Azimio will give a detailed statement on Thursday to tell Kenyans why we oppose it and what they should do if it is brought to parliament,” said Odinga.

He urged Kenyans to be on the lookout out for Members of Parliament (MPs), who will vote in favour of the bill.

“There have been all these threats but our MPs have been told to oppose it fiercely. We want Kenyans to watch out keenly for whoever will support that bill because that is betraying Kenyans."

His warning came a day after president William Ruto warned that he will be watching out for MPs opposed to the bill.

“I am waiting to see the MPs who will go against the government’s plan to give their voters employment. We want to see and know those going against this Finance Bill,” the president warned during a thanks giving prayer service in Narok County on Sunday.

“I have heard some people saying they are waiting to see MPs who will vote for the Bill to pass, but I am equally waiting to see the members of parliament who will vote against the Finance Bill that seeks to ensure employment of young people, introduce 3 percent housing mortgage. We are waiting to see them oppose a plan that empowers the youths who voted them to parliament."

A section of MPs from North Rift who were initially opposed to the bill have endorsed it, after the president's warning.

The Finance Bill, 2023 will be tabled in the National Assembly this week, followed by tabling of the 2023/2024 budget on June 15.