'We are not fools': Sifuna dismisses Wetangula, links him to controversial Finance Bill 2024

Speaking in the wake of public outcries on the Finance Bill 2024, Wetangula chastised Members of Parliament for politicizing the national budget making process, reminding them of their integral role in its formulation and passage.

He reminded MPs of their responsibility to work within the parliamentary system to address any issues rather than airing grievances publicly.

Responding to Wetangula's sentiments, Sifuna accused the Speaker of being hypocritical on the matter, claiming that Wetangula participated in writing the controversial Finance Bill 2024.

"Wetangula thinks we are all fools. I have heard him on several occasions say he “will not allow” legislation that is “against our African values” especially when speaking at Catholic events. Now he is pretending to be powerless."

"Secondly, he reminds us at every turn that he is a Principal in Kenya Kwanza and 3rd in command. We know he participated in writing the Finance Bill 2024," said Sifuna, who is allied to the Azimio opposition coalition.

He added, "Lastly, he is still the Party Leader of Ford Kenya. All  his MPs voted for the punitive taxes last year and I know for a fact that is the same instruction he has given them this year. Watu si wajinga buana."

Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka on Tuesday urged MPs allied to the Azimio opposition coalition to reject the proposed Finance Bill 2024 when it is finally tabled in parliament, arguing that the proposed law is only meant to hurt Kenyans more.

Speaking at Azimio's Parliamentary Group meeting in Nairobi, Kalonzo said the bill, if implemented as it is, will adversely hurt ordinary Kenyans owing to the harsh tax proposals on key items. 

President Ruto’s administration seeks to squeeze more money from Kenyans’ pockets with the new Finance Bill, which among other things proposes an increase in the price of bread and a mandatory tax for all motor vehicle owners in the country to fund the 2024-2025 budget.

Treasury has proposed to paste VAT on bread, which has been tax-exempt, with a duty of 16 per cent.

The bill also suggests eliminating VAT exemptions for several financial services, including issuing credit and debit cards, telegraphic money transfer services, and cheque handling, processing, clearing, and settlement, including special clearance or cancellation of cheques.