Former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho. IMAGE FILE
In Summary:
- Former Governor Ali Hassan Joho calls for cross-party unity against the Finance Bill 2024.
- Joho warns of economic collapse and increased poverty if the bill passes.
Former Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho has called on legislators to set aside party allegiances and unite in opposition to the Finance Bill 2024, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the welfare of Kenyans.
Speaking at Masjid Kulthum on Sunday, Joho joined other politicians in denouncing the controversial bill, cautioning that its passage would lead to economic collapse in Kenya.
He accused President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration of imposing burdensome taxes on the public.
“You are making our people poorer every day. Do you want them to remain poor while you govern over them?” Joho challenged the government.
He criticized the bill for seeking to introduce additional taxes without considering the impact on ordinary citizens.
Joho emphasized that the issue transcends party lines and urged MPs to listen to their constituents.
“This is not about being a member of ODM or UDA. It’s about stepping out of party boundaries and listening to the people’s voices. Go to Parliament and debate on behalf of the people,” Joho asserted.
He acknowledged that while ODM would strongly oppose the bill, they lack the numbers to defeat it alone and called for broader support from other parties.