Kalonzo Supports Ruto Finance Bill With One Condition

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka on Sunday, May 4, voiced support for President William Ruto’s Finance Bill 2023 while differing from former prime minister  Raila Odinga’s uncompromising stance. 

During a church service at AIC Kasina in Mlolongo, Machakos County, he requested that Kenya Kwanza leaders take into account divergent opinions on the Bill and cautioned against any attempts to silence those who disagree with it. He also advocated for the state to make adjustments so that it reflects the people’s will. 

“We believe that the Finance Bill has a huge impact on Kenyans, so it is okay for people to give opposing views. People should not be branded as sell-outs for going to court to seek a determination on the proposals made on the Finance Bill,” he stated.

Kalonzo’s utterance opposed Raila Odinga’s opinion on Tuesday, May 30, which expressed Azimio’s hardline stance on the contentious bill. According to the Azimio leader, the outfit had resolved to reject the bill in totality. Kalonzo defended Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah and his lawsuit dated Friday, May 2. In the lawsuit, Omtatah questioned the legality of the Bill. 

Kalonzo’s assertions came a week after Mr Odinga gave Ruto a deadline of Monday, June 5 to withdraw the Bill or face opposition-led backlash from Kenyans.

“Enough is enough. We shall blow the trumpet and tell you what to do,” Raila told his supporters while issuing the ultimatum. 

On Sunday, June 4th, the National Assembly majority whip Sylavnus Osoro declared that the August House would approve the Bill despite Azimio’s objection. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua endorsed Osoro’s statement saying that Kenya will achieve economic prosperity by passing the bill.