National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has called on Members of Parliament to uphold the integrity of Kenya’s legislative process by debating the Finance Bill, 2025, within the confines of Parliament rather than in public forums such as funerals or schools.
Speaking in the House on Wednesday before the legislature proceeded on recess, Wetang’ula confirmed the formal receipt and tabling of the 2025/26 Budget Estimates, marking a critical phase in Parliament’s constitutional duty to review and approve the country’s revenue and expenditure plans.
“This House is constitutionally mandated under Article 221 and Section 39 of the Public Finance Management Act to scrutinise allocations to the Executive, Judiciary, and Legislature,” he said, as he committed the estimates to the relevant Departmental Committees and the Budget and Appropriations Committee for thorough review and stakeholder consultations.
The Speaker emphasised the need for a transparent, committee-led process anchored in public participation, urging MPs to prioritise the strategic needs of the country and represent their constituents’ voices effectively.
Wetang’ula also announced that the draft Finance Bill, 2025, which outlines proposed tax measures by the government, had been received and would undergo its First Reading shortly. The Departmental Committee on Finance and National Planning will spearhead its review and hold public hearings.
Minority Leader Junet Mohamed also weighed in, cautioning against misinformation surrounding the Bill. He dismissed a so-called “shadow finance bill” that had been circulating online, saying the document was unauthentic and purely speculative.
“The official Bill is now before us. Let us not seek political mileage by quoting unverified provisions. If you oppose the Bill, do so in this House,” Junet stated.
Speaker Wetang’ula echoed these sentiments, reminding MPs of their solemn role in the budget-making process. “You do not look good when you dramatise fiscal debates in public while remaining silent in the House,” he said.
As MPs begin their recess, they have been urged to use the period for thorough analysis and engagement on the budget estimates decisions that will define Kenya’s economic path in the coming financial year.
