Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has come to the defense of Members of Parliament who supported the Finance Bill, 2024, emphasizing that they were merely fulfilling their roles and should not face backlash from the public. Gachagua highlighted that MPs are elected to back their party’s agenda, insisting that their votes were in line with their responsibilities.

He urged the youth to understand that MPs have the freedom to exercise their right to vote and should not be condemned for their decisions. “I appeal to Kenyans not to punish Members of Parliament for their stance. A government is formed by a political party, and when it decides on a program for the people, its MPs must support it,” Gachagua stated. “Our MPs did what was right within the context of our political system.”


Gachagua also called for an end to attacks on properties owned by MPs, noting that these leaders were following party directives. He assured the public that with the government now addressing their concerns, it’s time to move forward. “Let them support their government as elected members of the ruling party. We should not harass or abuse them or attack their properties. They were following government instructions, and now that the government has responded appropriately, we should close that chapter,” he added.


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The Deputy President advised anyone with grievances against any MP to wait for the next general election to take action. “I sympathize with Members of Parliament for their traumatic experiences. I urge our young people to find peaceful ways to make their voices heard without resorting to property destruction,” Gachagua said.

The Finance Bill 2024 had sparked widespread controversy, with protesters arguing it imposed undue burdens on Kenyans already grappling with a high cost of living. Despite the opposition, the bill passed on Tuesday with 195 votes in favor and 106 against.

Following the vote, disgruntled Kenyans took to the streets, accusing MPs of failing to represent their interests. The protests escalated into an invasion of Parliament, resulting in vandalism and looting before the crowds dispersed.