NAIROBI, Kenya – Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, has called on Members of Parliament (MPs) to exercise responsibility and engage thoughtfully in the upcoming deliberations on the Budget Estimates for the Financial Year 2025/2026.
In a communication to the House, Wetang’ula emphasized the importance of careful consideration of the national budget, urging MPs to base their decisions on thorough analysis rather than external pressures.
“The Budget Estimates for the Financial Year 2025/2026 have been tabled and committed to the respective Departmental Committees and the Budget and Appropriations Committee for detailed consideration. It is imperative that MPs engage with relevant stakeholders and ensure broad-based participation in the scrutiny process,” Wetang’ula said.
He reminded MPs of their constitutional duty, referencing Article 221 of the Constitution and Section 39 of the Public Finance Management Act, 2012, which require the National Assembly to assess and approve the national government’s revenue and expenditure estimates.
These estimates form the foundation for the annual Appropriation Act.
Wetang’ula also announced that the House had received a draft Finance Bill for 2025 from the Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury, which will outline revenue-raising measures to support the budget.
This Bill will be committed to the Departmental Committee on Finance and National Planning for further review and public participation.
As the House is scheduled to go on recess at the end of the sitting, Wetang’ula noted that the break will give Committees adequate time to undertake their scrutiny work.
He urged MPs to familiarize themselves with the budget documents during this period and to engage meaningfully in the budget process, ensuring that the priorities of their constituents are adequately reflected.
In his closing remarks, Wetang’ula advised MPs to avoid being swayed by external distractions or emotions when discussing the budget.
“Engage in the debate and make decisions that will serve the people of Kenya, not based on external influences,” he added, highlighting the importance of sound decision-making in national matters.
The call for responsible budgeting comes at a time when the country is facing significant economic challenges, and the Speaker’s message underscored the need for a transparent, inclusive, and well-considered budget process.
