President William Ruto has dismissed the objections to the withdrawn Finance Bill 2024, describing them as baseless "propaganda and rumors" from certain quarters. Speaking at a roadside rally in Taita Taveta on Sunday, Ruto defended the Bill, arguing that it contained positive proposals aimed at improving the lives of Kenyans. He cited an example where the Bill would have facilitated access to water and electricity for residents in Bura and Mgange areas, but these benefits were lost when the Bill was rejected.
Ruto hinted at reintroducing a revised version of the Bill, saying, "I had included it in the budget, but it faced hurdles and was ultimately rejected. Some people voted 'NO,' and now I have to go back and make revisions. You see how these people are giving me a hard time."
He dismissed the criticisms as mere fabrications, saying, "It's all just unfounded accusations about issues like cancer and land, all of which are lies."
The President added that he has embraced the changes in his government, viewing them as an opportunity for better reforms. "I have accepted that what has happened has given us a chance to build a better Kenya. The government I have created now is one that unites all Kenyans," he said.
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Ruto emphasized that his cabinet is designed to bring together all Kenyan communities, fostering unity to tackle national issues collectively.
The Finance Bill was withdrawn after widespread public protests, with Kenyans taking to the streets to demand its rejection. Consequently, the National Assembly, in a Committee of the Whole House, voted to accept Ruto's reservations and recommendations to delete all clauses of the Bill. As a result, none of the provisions in the Bill have any legal effect.
