Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kinduki has warned politicians plotting to cause chaos over the controversy surrounding the Finance Bill 2023.
In a statement on Sunday, June 11, 2023, Kindiki said that the government will provide security to Kenyans wishing to give their divergent views on the Bill.
“Kenya is a democratic nation that respects the plurality of opinion and views on political, economic, and social matters. Differences in opinion and persuasion must be resolved peacefully and using relevant institutions,” Kindiki stated.
“On the ongoing conversation over the Finance Bill 2023, the Government will provide the necessary security support to those who wish to air their grievances and views peaceably. Any form of lawlessness, including disruption of businesses, destruction of public and private property, and looting, will be not be allowed.”
Kindiki’s message to MPs
Kindiki has urged MPs from both the government side and the opposition to exercise their legislative powers to determine the fate of the Bill.
“MPs from Kenya Kwanza Alliance and the opposition should use their legislative mandate to determine the fate of the Finance Bill 2023. Any person aggrieved by the parliamentary outcome should use other institutions, such as the Judiciary to contest the decision(s),” Kindiki added.
The warning from Kindiki comes days after Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya coalition party leader Raila Odinga warned that they would use the people to “overrun” President William Ruto in case he uses the National Assembly to pass the Bill.
“Should Ruto overrun the National Assembly, we will regroup and overrun him in the wider National Assembly of the whole people of Kenya,” Raila said.
The Bill is set to be tabled in Parliament this week for debate.
