An Orange Democratic Party-aligned Member of Parliament has shifted his stance to support the Finance Bill 2024, citing the removal of contentious provisions that now make it more favourable to citizens.
Christopher Aseka, the MP for Kwisero, became the first opposition-aligned legislator to change his position amidst peaceful demonstrations nationwide, where Kenyans voiced frustrations over certain provisions.
"From yesterday's announcements, taxes on bread and edible oil are no more. There are provisions that I support in the Finance Bill, this includes imposing taxes on alcohol and liquor beverages," Aseka said.
Through Kuria Kimani, Chairman of the Finance and National Planning Committee in the National Assembly, the government confirmed the withdrawal of excise duty proposals on bread and edible oil.
A joint press conference concluded with the abandonment of the proposed 16% VAT on bread and taxes on mobile phone transfers following deliberations on these issues.
Just a day after the Azimio Parliamentary Groups (PG) held a joint press conference on Tuesday, June 18, where they collectively decided to reject the Finance Bill 2024 in its entirety, a notable opposition-aligned MP has changed his stance.
The decision by the Azimio MPs to oppose the bill came after extensive discussions immediately following the tabling of the amended document by the Chair of the NA Finance Committee in parliament.
The Azimio leaders, emboldened by the endorsement of Raila Odinga, asserted their rejection to align with the sentiments expressed by peaceful demonstrators across the nation.
The Finance Bill, which includes measures to boost revenue, is currently undergoing deliberations on the floor of the National Assembly prior to a vote.
Prior to the dissent among some allied MPs, Orange Democratic Movement Secretary General Edwin Sifuna had urged all 86 lawmakers from the party to be present throughout the consideration of the Finance Bill 2024.
In the recent general elections, MP Aseka successfully defended his seat under the Orange Democratic Party ticket, securing a significant victory over his opponent Godfrey Kanoti.
Aseka garnered 28,156 votes against Kanoti's 4,673, with 419 votes rejected.
