BY MARK MABUSI

National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has come to the defense of the Finance Bill 2026 amid mounting criticism from opposition leaders and segments of the public regarding the proposed tax measures outlined in the legislation.

During a public address, Mbadi rejected accusations that the government plans to impose taxes on freehold and leasehold land, accusing certain political figures of spreading misinformation about the Bill. He challenged critics to pinpoint specific clauses in the proposed legislation that allegedly introduce land taxation, asserting that such claims are unfounded and politically motivated.

“Can Honourable Stephen Kalonzo inform the people of Kenya about the exact clause in the bill we submitted to the National Assembly that discusses taxation of land, freehold, or leasehold?” Mbadi asked.

He urged Kenyans to engage with the Finance Bill in a thoughtful manner by examining the actual proposals within the document, rather than relying on potentially misleading political narratives.

Mbadi also addressed concerns regarding the proposed 2.5 percent excise duty on mobile phones and wireless communication devices. He explained that the government aims to simplify an already convoluted taxation system. The proposed framework seeks to replace various levies with a single charge payable upon the activation of a mobile device, which Mbadi argued would streamline tax administration.

“We are moving from a complicated system to a simpler one. There will be no charge tax or levy when you bring in the phone; the excise duty of 2.5 percent will only be applicable when the phone is purchased and activated,” he clarified.

While some proposalsare still being technically reviewed and did not make it into the Finance Bill 2026, Mbadi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a fiscal framework that bolsters revenue mobilization, economic growth, innovation, and long-term sustainability.

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As public participation regarding the Finance Bill progresses, Mbadi encouraged both citizens and political leaders to engage in fact-based discussions and constructive criticism, emphasizing the importance of addressing concerns through appropriate parliamentary and public engagement channels.