MPs pass controversial Finance Bill 2024

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula. [File, Standard]

The controversial Finance Bill 2024 has passed in Parliament despite nationwide protests by Kenyans demanding its rejection.

195 lawmakers voted in favour of the Bill, 106 voted against while three votes were spoilt.

The Committee of the Whole House had previously considered proposed amendments to the Bill and taken a vote on each clause in a record two-hour session.

Azimio la Umoja Members of Parliament, however, withdrew amendments to the Finance Bill and rejected it in totality. National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi told the House that rejecting the Bill followed extensive discussions during a Parliamentary Group meeting on Monday evening.

On his part, Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo said; "Mr Speaker thank you for your guidance. I have no amendments because I took the position you cannot amend a bad Bill."

However, Speaker Moses Wetangula said he had only received notice from 12 MPs who wished to have amendments of the Bill withdrawn.

"The rest of the members, I can read through your minds. You want to make reckless political statements in the guise of amendments. Any member who wants to withdraw your amendments, write a letter to my office, I will approve immediately," said Wetangula.

Following the passing of the Bill in the Third Reading, Wetangula will now present it to the President for assenting.

Within 14 days, the president may assent to the Bill or refer it back to the House with some reservations.

This comes in the back of nationwide protests against the Finance Bill. In Nairobi, protestors are currently approaching Parliament Buildings, having engaged in running battles with police since morning.