- Already, Azimio la Umoja has directed its members to shoot down the Finance Bill, 2024.
- The Finance Bill, 2024 was published on May 9 and is set to be subjected to public participation.
Image: FILE
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has asked Azimio leader Raila Odinga to lead a fresh wave of protests should the Finance Bill, 2024 be forced on Kenyans.
The Bill contains tax proposals the Kenya Kwanza government wants to use to raise revenue and finance its ambitious projects.
Babu said the proposed taxes by President William Ruto will hurt the already suffering Kenyans.
“Raila Odinga, Kenyans are suffering. There are new taxes on the way and they are not good. If you have avocado in your homestead you pay taxes, when you rear chicken, you pay taxes, if you have a car, you pay taxes. Now they want to even add the tax on bread,” he said.
Babu pleaded with Raila to listen to the cries of Kenyans and lead them in opposing the proposed taxes.
“Baba, before you go to the AU, just call one demonstration please so that we deal with this person,” he stated.
Already, Azimio la Umoja has directed its members to shoot down the Finance Bill, 2024.
The coalition leadership, led by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, termed the proposed taxes contained in the Finance Bill as punitive, warning they risk impoverishing Kenyans.
The former Vice President said the Bill must be rejected. He threatened the coalition will have no option but to resort to nationwide demonstrations if it is railroaded in Parliament.
"As a coalition, we are ready to go back to the streets if that is what it takes. I hope you are bold enough. Be ready ladies and gentlemen," Kalonzo said.
"If you feel a little weak that you think you can't withstand another round of demonstrations, then go eat something strong because we need you and this country needs you."
The Finance Bill, 2024 was published on May 9 and is set to be subjected to public participation. Members of the public have up to May 28, to give their views on the proposals.