The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has issued a directive to its Members of Parliament (MPs) mandating their attendance during the critical debate and voting period of the contentious Finance Bill 2024.
In a letter dated June 13, 2024, seen by Sharp Daily, Edwin Sifuna, Secretary General of ODM, mentioned the upcoming deliberations on the Finance Bill 2024 as important due to what many perceive as its punitive proposals.
“As you are aware, the proposals contained in the Finance Bill 2024 have elicited sharp public debate with many Kenyans concerned about their punitive nature,” Sifuna wrote.
The National Assembly Committee on Finance and Planning is set to present its report on the bill to the House on 18 June 2024, following extensive public participation. Sifuna emphasized the necessity for all ODM MPs to be present for the entire duration of the bill’s consideration.
“You are further requested to suspend any other engagements that would otherwise see you out of Nairobi during this critical period,” he instructed.
The Finance Bill 2024 includes a range of fiscal measures aimed at addressing budgetary shortfalls but has been criticized for its potential impact on the cost of living.
Sifuna’s letter also included provisions for MPs unable to attend due to compelling reasons. The MPs are required to notify the party by 18 June 2024, ensuring transparency and accountability within the party ranks.
“Should you have any compelling reason to be absent from Kenya during this period, you are required to indicate this to the Party through the undersigned no later than Tuesday, 18th June 2024,” the letter stated.
