Azimio MPs Plot to Halt Finance Bill 2024: Can They Succeed?

The Azimio la Umoja Coalition has mobilized its resources and strategized a comprehensive plan to obstruct the controversial Finance Bill 2024. As opposition to various tax proposals within the Bill grows, Azimio MPs, led by Raila Odinga’s ODM party, are gearing up for an uphill battle against the resolute Kenya Kwanza coalition.

Opposition Strategy

Raila Odinga’s ODM has issued a directive to all its elected members, mandating them to vote against the Finance Bill 2024. Party insiders reveal that ODM’s stance is to reject the Bill in its entirety unless significant concerns highlighted by the party are addressed. This unanimous decision underscores the party’s strong opposition to the Bill, which they believe contains tax proposals that could be detrimental to the Kenyan populace.

The Azimio coalition’s strategy involves a multi-faceted approach:

Building a United Front: Azimio MPs are working to present a cohesive front against the Bill. This includes lobbying other opposition parties and independent MPs to join their cause.
Engaging the Public: Azimio leaders are mobilizing public opinion through rallies, social media campaigns, and town hall meetings to educate citizens on the perceived negative impacts of the Bill. By garnering public support, they hope to pressure the government to reconsider some of the contentious tax proposals.
Legislative Maneuvers: In the parliamentary arena, Azimio MPs plan to employ various legislative tactics to delay or block the Bill. This includes proposing numerous amendments, engaging in prolonged debates, and potentially leveraging parliamentary procedures to stall the Bill’s progress.

Despite their concerted efforts, Azimio faces a formidable challenge. The Kenya Kwanza coalition, which supports the Bill, holds a significant majority in Parliament. This numerical advantage means that even with a united opposition, passing the Bill is still within Kenya Kwanza’s grasp, provided they maintain party discipline and ensure all their members are present and voting.

Moreover, the government is likely to use its influence and resources to rally support for the Bill. This includes persuading wavering MPs, offering concessions, and possibly leveraging political patronage to secure the necessary votes.

The Finance Bill 2024 has sparked widespread controversy due to several proposed tax changes. Some of the key concerns raised by the opposition and various stakeholders include:

Increased VAT: The Bill proposes an increase in the Value Added Tax (VAT) on essential goods, which could exacerbate the cost of living for ordinary Kenyans.
New Income Taxes: Introduction of new income tax brackets and higher rates for certain income groups, which the opposition argues could stifle economic growth and burden middle-income earners.
Corporate Taxes: Higher corporate taxes that could deter investment and negatively impact the business climate.

As the debate over the Finance Bill 2024 intensifies, the Azimio coalition’s efforts to block its passage will require not just determination but also strategic persuasion and perhaps a bit of luck. While they have managed to consolidate their internal support and mobilize public opinion, the numerical superiority of the Kenya Kwanza coalition in Parliament remains a significant hurdle.

The outcome will ultimately hinge on the ability of both sides to rally their members, sway undecided MPs, and influence public sentiment. As the Bill moves through the legislative process, all eyes will be on Parliament to see if Azimio’s plans to stop the Finance Bill will come to fruition or if Kenya Kwanza will succeed in pushing it through.