‘Don't sign Finance Bill, let us talk’, Church leaders advise President Ruto

The Church and Clergy Association of Kenya has advised President William Ruto not to sign the Finance Bill 2024 into law.

Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi on Tuesday June 26, 2024 the Church leaders urged the government and Kenyan youth to soften their hard stance on the bill for the sake of promoting peace and unity in the country.

Chairman of the Church and Clergy Association of Kenya, Hudson Ndeda noted that the church is aware of the current situation in the country.

“Kenyans should know that the church has never shied away from speaking on issues of great concern.

“We urge the government and our youth to de-escalate their hard stance on this bill for the sake of our beloved country,” said Ndeba.

He added that the church has always raised concerns on over-taxation, starting with the Finance Bill 2023.

“The Finance Bill 2024 as it is, doesn’t reflect the economic state of majority of Kenyans. The current protests are indeed a reflection of the dissatisfaction of the people of Kenya,” he added.

He emphasized that the issue of controversial taxes cannot be swept under the carpet, adding that the president must understand that the grievances raised do not start with the youth but extend to their parents.

“We ask the president to relent. To allow the dissenting voices to be heard.

“Exercise restraint, ask the IG of Police to protect our children while they are on the streets. They are peaceful and are only exercising their constitutional right,” the clergy noted in a statement.

At the same time, the servants of God urged the MPs to read the mood of Kenyans and stand with citizens, adding that the interest of the country is bigger than their own personal interests.

“To the youth, the church is proud of your efforts, we are strongly behind you. Allow the government to engage you on the finance bill 2024 in order to find a solution,” the Church advised.

They also urged Kenya Kwanza politicians to be careful with their utterances because everyone should be heard and at the end of the day the Finance Bill affects everyone.