Kenya: Parliament Kicks Off Review of 2025/26 Budget As Speaker Warns Against Politicising Finance Bill

Nairobi — Parliament has started reviewing the 2025/26 Budget Estimates. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula urged lawmakers to keep the budget process free from politics. He emphasized avoiding discussions about the Finance Bill in public forums.

During the last sitting before a month-long recess, Wetang'ula confirmed that both the budget estimates and the draft Finance Bill 2025 were officially presented. This begins the constitutional budget cycle as per Article 221 of the Constitution and the Public Finance Management Act.

"The Estimates are now with relevant Departmental Committees and the Budget and Appropriations Committee," he said. They will conduct detailed analysis and public consultations. He highlighted the need for transparency, genuine public participation, and alignment with national priorities.

Wetang'ula criticized MPs who discuss the Finance Bill at funerals, schools, and political rallies instead of in Parliament. "Talking at funerals won't help you pass proper budgeting processes," he stated. He warned against misleading claims made in front of children about opposing a bill not yet debated.

The Finance Bill 2025 proposes various tax measures to increase revenue. It will undergo First Reading before being sent to the Departmental Committee on Finance and National Planning for public hearings.

Minority Leader Junet Mohamed warned against misinformation regarding the Bill. He stressed that what is currently before Parliament is official. "Let’s discuss facts here in this chamber, not at funerals or schools," he said.

This year's budget debate follows last year's withdrawal of the Finance Bill 2024 due to protests and political pressure. That bill proposed controversial tax hikes but was abandoned before reaching Second Reading—a rare occurrence reflecting civic engagement's influence on tax policy.

The experience from 2024 still affects this year's process. Lawmakers and citizens are expected to scrutinize new proposals closely. Previous bills in 2018 and 2021 faced strong opposition over taxes on fuel and essential goods, leading to amendments or executive intervention.

Wetang'ula encouraged MPs to use their recess for wide consultation. He urged them to prepare for informed debates when Parliament reconvenes. "This is not just a procedural exercise; it’s crucial for our national priorities," he concluded.