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Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetangula, yesterday directed the House of Representatives to withdraw the controversial 2024 Finance Bill.
Wetangula said in a statement on Thursday, June 27, that he submitted the bill to President William Ruto for his assent on Tuesday, June 25.
“The National Assembly considered and passed the Finance Bill (National Assembly Bill No. 30 of 2024) on June 25, 2024, after which I submitted the bill to the President for his assent,” He said.
He, however, noted that the President had sent the bill back to Parliament and provided guidance to all MPs.
“The president’s memorandum rejected the bill in its entirety and this decision was made to reflect the voice of the Kenyan people who rejected the bill.” He said.
Wetangula explained that any MP who wishes to override the President’s reservation or reinstate any of the 69 provisions of the bill must obtain the support of at least two-thirds of the National Assembly, or 233 MPs.
As the National Assembly is currently in recess, he referred the bill to the Finance Committee for consideration.
The Speaker, in his address to all members of the House and the public, directed the committee to consider the President’s proposals and submit its report to the House after the adjournment.
“The Committee must expeditiously begin its consideration of the President’s memorandum, his reservations and recommendations, and submit its report to the House when it next resumes its regularly scheduled session.” Directed by Wetangula.
Wetangula further directed the National Assembly Secretary to inform the members of the directive and assist the committee in the review process.
Meanwhile, Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah moved a procedural motion to amend the House calendar to allow lawmakers to adjourn to ease tensions over the finance bill.
Mr Izonwa proposed that the recess begin on Friday (June 28) and end on Monday (July 22), with normal session resuming on July 23.
Minority leader Opiyo Wandayi seconded the motion and said lawmakers had an obligation to explain to their constituents their votes and the reasons behind their decisions.
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