Kenya’s Parliament passed a new finance bill on Tuesday, June 25, 2026, amid public demonstrations in the capital. The legislation, supported by President William Ruto’s administration, aims to raise an estimated $770 million in government revenue.
The government has stated that the financial measures are necessary to fund state services and manage the country’s debt obligations. Officials from the administration presented the bill as part of a broader economic strategy in the period leading up to the 2027 general election.
The passage of the bill prompted protests in Nairobi, where demonstrators gathered to express opposition to the new tax proposals. The events drew comparisons to demonstrations that occurred two years prior. In 2024, a separate finance bill led to widespread protests, largely organized by younger Kenyans, which resulted in multiple fatalities. Following those demonstrations, the government withdrew the 2024 bill.
Opponents of the 2026 legislation have voiced concerns about the potential effects of the new taxes on the cost of living for citizens and the operational costs for businesses.
Following its approval in Parliament, the bill is now set to be presented to President Ruto for his assent, which is the final step for it to be enacted into law. The government has not yet provided a detailed timeline for the bill’s implementation. Reports from Nairobi indicated an increased security presence in areas where demonstrations were held.
