Juja MP George Koimburi claimed on Sunday that legislators were offered Ksh. 2 million in exchange for voting ‘yes’ on the Finance Bill, which advanced to the second reading on Thursday. Koimburi, one of the 114 members of parliament who voted against the Bill, asserted that MPs were bribed to pass the legislation, which has faced widespread condemnation amidst a rising cost of living.
Speaking at the AIPCA Ndururumo Church in Juja constituency, Koimburi stated that he refused the bribe and voted against the bill, expressing his firm opposition to the proposed legislation.
“We were offered money… you saw how they carried money in sacks,” Koimburi told congregants at the AIPCA church in Ndurumo.
“We were told that for every yes vote, we would receive Ksh. 2 million.”
Koimburi’s allegations have intensified the already heated debate over the Finance Bill.
The bill, which has faced strong opposition from various sectors, proposes several tax increases and economic measures that critics argue will burden ordinary citizens. Emphasizing his commitment to his constituents, Koimburi stated that he could not, in good conscience, support a bill he believes will harm the public.
The MP also condemned police brutality during recent anti-Finance Bill protests in Nairobi, expressing dismay at the heavy-handed tactics of law enforcement, which have resulted in injuries and two reported deaths. Furthermore, Koimburi issued a stark warning about the possible consequences of the Finance Bill being passed and signed into law by the president.
He cautioned that as youth become increasingly disenfranchised and frustrated by the economic hardships imposed by such legislation, they may resort to drastic measures, including widespread unrest.
“If this bill passes, the youth may burn the country,” he warned, emphasising the critical need for the government to reconsider its position.
