Government Dismisses Online Rumors on 2025/26 Finance Bill, Reaffirms Focus on Fiscal Responsibility

By Brenda Asugu 

The government has dispelled circulating rumors about the 2025/26 Finance Bill, confirming that no such legislation has been drafted or tabled in Parliament. Addressing the media in Nairobi, Government Spokesperson Hon. Sen. (Dr.) Isaac Mwaura clarified that the budget process is still ongoing, and the Finance Bill will only be introduced after the National Treasury publishes the Draft Budget at the end of April.
Dr. Mwaura assured the public that any revenue-raising proposals would undergo comprehensive public participation before implementation. He emphasized that the government's current priority lies in the Budget Policy Statement, which outlines strategies to reduce public debt while safeguarding essential services. Rather than introducing new taxes, the administration is pursuing administrative reforms and greater transparency in public spending.

In the agricultural sector, the government’s Guaranteed Minimum Returns program continues to boost farmer incomes. Kenya has emerged as a global leader in macadamia production, and coffee farmers are now earning more than double their previous income, with payments made directly through mobile money. Farmers in the dairy, sugarcane, miraa, and avocado sectors have also benefited from significant price increases—part of a broader policy shift from consumption subsidies to production incentives.

On the healthcare front, the new Taifa Care program—formerly known as the Social Health Authority—has expanded coverage to over 19 million Kenyans. The revamped initiative offers enhanced benefits for critical illnesses such as cancer and diabetes, along with improved reimbursement for intensive care services. The government is also rolling out flexible payment options to ensure more inclusive access.

Health authorities are actively responding to disease outbreaks, including Kala-azar in Wajir County and cholera cases in Nairobi, Migori, and Kisumu. Mobile laboratories, emergency blood banks, and hygiene campaigns have been deployed to contain the spread and enhance treatment outcomes.

In education, the government is investigating recent controversies involving the disruption of a school play and the unlawful withholding of examination certificates. Dr. Mwaura said these incidents are under review to ensure that education regulations are followed while encouraging student creativity and expression.

Addressing rising concerns about gender-based violence, the government strongly condemned the recent surge in femicide cases. A technical team is currently drafting tougher legal frameworks to tackle the issue, with nationwide public forums planned to collect citizen input on the proposed reforms.

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