June 25, (THEWILL) – Kenya President, William Ruto, has declined to sign the proposed Finance Bill 2024 into law amid widespread protests.
In a televised address on Wednesday, Ruto instead, proposed austerity across government departments, including the Executive.
“Following the passage of the Bill, the country witnessed widespread expression of dissatisfaction with the Bill as passed, regrettably resulting in the loss of life, destruction of property and desecration of constitutional institutions. I send condolences to the families of those who lost
“Because I run a government but I also lead people and the people have spoken, I am grateful to all members of the National Assembly who voted yesterday affirmatively for the Finance Bill 2024 as amended on the floor of the House.
“Listening keenly to the people of Kenya who have said loudly that they want nothing to do with this Finance Bill 2024, I concede, and therefore I will not sign the 2024 Finance Bill and it shall subsequently be withdrawn”, he said.
Ruto directed immediate further austerity measures to reduce expenditure starting with the Office of the President, the entire presidency, and extending to the executive arm of government. He also directed a reduction in operational expenditure in the presidency, cutting allocations for travel, hospitality, vehicle purchases, renovations, and other expenses.
“Working with the Treasury, we will also undertake budget cuts and austerity measures to ensure we live within our means, respecting the clear message from the people of Kenya.
“I also propose that within the next 14 days, a multi-sectoral, multi-stakeholder engagement be held to chart the way forward on matters relating to the content of the Bill as well as auxiliary issues raised in recent days on the need for austerity measures and strengthening our fight against corruption”, he added.
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