Lilian Nyiva
A section of Members of Parliament who voted against the Finance Bill 2026 have received praise from supporters and opposition leaders, with their votes attracting widespread public attention following the Bill's passage in the National Assembly.
The Finance Bill 2026 was approved during its Third Reading after 122 MPs voted in favour while 40 voted against. The legislation now awaits presidential assent before becoming law.
List Circulating on Social Media
A graphic widely shared on social media highlights several MPs who voted "No" to the Bill. The lawmakers featured include:
Babu Owino (Embakasi East)
Caroli Omondi
Anthony Kibagendi
Oundo Wilberforce
Clive Gisairo
Patrick Makau
Obadiah Baringo
Dan Mwashako
Joshua Kimilu
Jack Wamboka
Majimbo Kalasinga
They are described as "leaders who stood with the people" for rejecting the Bill.
Finance Bill Debate
The vote followed days of heated debate in Parliament, with supporters of the Bill arguing that it contains measures needed to raise government revenue and finance the 2026/27 national budget.
Opponents, however, maintained that some proposals would increase the tax burden on Kenyans and negatively affect the cost of living. Several MPs publicly declared before the vote that they would reject the Bill over those concerns.
Public and Political Reactions
Following the vote, various political leaders and groups praised MPs who voted against the Bill, saying they had reflected the concerns raised by many Kenyans during public participation. At the same time, supporters of the Bill defended its passage, arguing that Parliament had already amended several contentious clauses before approval.
