Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi confidently stated that any protests linked to the Finance Bill 2026 would stem from political motivations, not his performance.
In a recent chat on political analyst Herman Manyora’s YouTube podcast, just before the budget reading on June 10, 2026, Mbadi expressed that he wouldn’t see demonstrations as a personal failure. He emphasized his extensive engagement across the country, with over 17 forums held to gather public input before drafting the Finance Bill.
He reassured that any potential protests would reflect political interests rather than dissatisfaction with the bill or his role. Notably, he mentioned the contentious mitumba taxation issue, explaining that after consulting stakeholders, they agreed on a single 5% tax on profits, replacing previous burdensome levies. He pointed out that many misunderstandings about the tax changes exist, and mitumba traders are actually on board with the new agreement.
Mbadi maintained that the Finance Bill 2026 is a product of thorough public participation, making it hard to accept that protests would be genuinely driven by public discontent. His comments come as opposition groups, including Linda Mwananchi and the United Opposition, plan to protest later this month, marking the anniversary of the June 2024 Gen Z protests.
Opposition leaders, led by Democratic Party’s Justin Muturi, are urging their allies in the National Assembly to closely examine the Finance Bill 2026 when it is presented. Muturi called for a total rejection of the bill, encouraging MPs to propose amendments to protect Kenyans’ interests, and to stand firm against government pressures.
