Thursday, 4 June, 2026
The Committee on Finance and National Planning has engaged the residents of Wajir County on the proposed legislative proposals aimed at implementing tax measures for Financial Year, 2026/27.
Members of the Committee were collating public views pursuant to Article 118 of the Constitution of Kenya which mandates Parliament to conduct its business in an open manner and involve Kenyans in legislative processes.
Led by the Chairperson Hon. Kuria Kimani, the Committee conducted a civic education session to enhance public understanding of the four proposed legislations, namely; Finance Bill 2026, Sovereign Wealth Fund Bill, the Kenya Revenue Authority (Amendment) Bill and the Central Bank of Kenya (Amendment) Bill before receiving submissions from the residents.
Speaking during the engagement exercise, Hon. Kimani assured residents that his led Committee would take into account the views collected from Wajir and other parts of the country in their report.
"We are all aware that Wajir has been left behind on matters development including roads and education. This Committee will ensure that your views count in our report and that no part of the country is left behind," Hon. Kimani said.
During the engagement, members of the public urged the Committee to ensure that the proposed legislation does not increase the cost of living for Kenyans.
They further called on the Committee to ensure prudent utilization of the public funds and equitable distribution of development projects across the country.
Mr. Isaac Gitonga, a representative of the non-local community in Wajir Town emphasized the need for increased public awareness on the Bills.
"We are not opposed to the proposed Bills. They contain significant benefits, but for citizens to fully participate and share their views, they must be adequately informed on the benefits," said Mr. Gitonga.
Chesumei MP. Hon. Paul Biego reiterated the importance of including the views from all regions of the country, noting that all voices are important in shaping the national legislation.
"We want the people of Wajir to know that their views matter and will be taken into consideration alongside those from other Kenyans as Parliament deliberates on these proposals," Hon. Kibichiy said.
Besides Wajir County, the Committee will also engage the public in several counties including Vihiga, Nairobi, Turkana, Mombasa, Siaya, Nyamira, Bomet, Kilifi, Kiambu, Makueni,Taita Taveta and Tana River.